Program Overview

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Program Overview

The program in question is a PhD research project focused on the development of luminescent molecular probes for detecting phosphate in UK waterways. This project aims to address the challenge of monitoring inorganic phosphate in water samples to predict the breakout of harmful algae blooms.

Qualification(s) Available

• PhD

Entry Requirements

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree in Chemistry. Experience in organic chemistry, supramolecular chemistry, and/or chemical biology will be an advantage.

Fees for Entry

• UK fee: £5,006 Full-time degree per annum
• International fee: £28,600 Full-time degree per annum

Duration and Start Date

• Full-time: 3 years
• Part-time: 6 years
• Start date: October 2025, January 2026, April 2026, July 2026

Application Deadline

• 1 March 2026

Project Reference

• CM/SB-SF4/2025

Location

• Loughborough

Subject Area(s)

• Chemistry, Materials

Project Details

A major unsolved challenge for environmental agencies is to monitor inorganic phosphate in water samples, to predict the breakout of harmful algae blooms that lead to aquatic ‘dead zones’. To solve this challenge, in this PhD project, we will synthesise molecular probes that bind selectively to phosphate anions and generate a sensitive luminescent signal that enables precise measurement of phosphate in water. In collaboration with the Loughborough EcoSENSE team, we will encapsulate our luminescent probes into hydrogel materials using our patented technology, thereby delivering new tools for the measurement of aqueous phosphate levels. This project will provide a vital step towards the accurate mapping and prediction of harmful algae blooms, alerting environmental and health agencies to take appropriate action to maintain and improve water quality.

High levels of inorganic phosphate released into waterways through sewage, fertiliser, and pesticides are a primary cause of the spread of environmentally detrimental algae. A major unsolved challenge for environmental agencies is to monitor excess phosphate in water to predict the breakout of harmful algae blooms, which lead to aquatic ‘dead zones’ and danger to human health. The cost of responding to water-based phosphate pollution in the UK alone is estimated at £170 million per year. Crucially, there are no existing sensors or devices capable of detecting phosphate which have been miniaturized for point-of-need testing and mapping of large waterways (e.g., rivers, lakes).

To solve this challenge, this PhD project will synthesise molecular probes that bind selectively to phosphate anions and generate a sensitive luminescent signal that enables precise measurement of phosphate in water. We have established the design principles to create luminescent probes that exhibit high binding selectivity for different biological phosphate anions (Chem. Sci., 2022, 13, 3386). We will build on this knowledge to develop probes with enhanced sensitivity for inorganic phosphate and minimal interference compared with existing sensing methods. We will encapsulate these luminescent probes into hydrogel materials using our patented technology, thereby delivering a new method for the measurement of aqueous phosphate levels. This project will provide a vital step towards the accurate mapping and prediction of harmful algae blooms, enabling environmental and health agencies to be alerted early enough to take appropriate action to maintain and improve water quality.

The student will gain excellent training in a range of techniques including organic synthesis, study of supramolecular host-guest interactions, luminescence assay development. They will be supported by other researchers within the Butler Group and will be very well trained for roles in industry through collaboration with industrial partners. Environmental and biotechnology companies increasingly require scientists with combined synthetic and bioanalytical skills. Therefore, there are many potential employability options for the student, in addition to postdoctoral opportunities in this highly active research field.

Supervisors

• Primary supervisor: Dr Stephen Butler
• Secondary supervisor: Dr Helen Willcock

English Language Requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment, and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment, and other support services. University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures.

How to Apply

All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select Chemistry. Please quote the advertised reference number: CM/SBSF4/2025 in your application.

Selection Criteria

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application. Please note that this criteria is used for both funded and self-funded projects.