Are you looking for a fully funded PhD in the UK for 2026 that combines AI, environmental science, and biotechnology? The Microplastics as Trojan Horses: AI and Engineering Approaches to Antibiotic Pollution project at Brunel University London offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of microbial ecology, artificial intelligence, and environmental engineering.
This cutting-edge doctoral research is part of the EngBio4Env Doctoral Focal Award (DFA) under the UKRI TechExpert 2026 pilot programme, designed to strengthen the UK’s innovation workforce. Successful applicants will receive a generous stipend of approximately £31,805 per year, making it one of the most competitive PhD funding opportunities in the UK for 2026.
PhD Studentship Summary Table (2026)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Title | Microplastics as Trojan Horses: AI & Engineering Approaches to Antibiotic Pollution |
| University | Brunel University London |
| Programme Type | Fully Funded PhD (Doctoral Focal Award – EngBio4Env) |
| Start Date | 1 October 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 15 August 2026 (12 noon UK time) |
| Funding Body | UKRI / EPSRC TechExpert Programme |
| Stipend | ~£31,805 per year |
| Funding Duration | Full PhD duration |
| Eligibility | Home (UK) students only |
| Research Areas | AI, Microbial Ecology, Environmental Science, Bioengineering |
| Supervisor | Dr Julia Reiss |
| Application Method | Email submission (PDF) |
About the Research Project
Microplastics (particles smaller than 5mm) are increasingly recognized as environmental threats. In this project, they are studied as “Trojan horses”—carrying antibiotics and pollutants through aquatic ecosystems.
These particles can adsorb antibiotics, transport them through food chains, and potentially contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). However, the role of microbial processing, especially by protists, remains poorly understood.
This PhD aims to explore how biological interactions change the way antibiotics bind to microplastics, ultimately affecting pollution spread and environmental health.
Research Objectives
This interdisciplinary project follows a three-part research approach:
1. Molecular Modelling & AI Analysis
- Study how antibiotics bind to plastic surfaces
- Identify structural factors influencing adsorption
- Use AI tools to analyze molecular interactions
2. Laboratory Experiments
- Measure adsorption and desorption under real environmental conditions
- Test how antibiotics behave in aquatic sediment systems
3. Microbial Processing Study
- Investigate how protists ingest and transform microplastics
- Compare antibiotic binding before and after biological processing
- Assess impact on pollutant transfer and AMR risk
AI Collaboration with DeepMirror
The project includes collaboration with DeepMirror, an AI-driven drug discovery company. You will:
- Use AI-powered molecular representation tools
- Generate insights into antibiotic–polymer interactions
- Combine computational predictions with lab validation
- Accelerate discovery using machine learning techniques
Funding Details (UKRI TechExpert 2026)
This studentship is part of the UKRI TechExpert pilot programme (2026 cohort) under the UK government’s TechFirst initiative.
Key Benefits:
- Up to £10,000 annual stipend enhancement
- Total stipend of approximately £31,805 per year
- Fully funded PhD for the entire duration
- Focus on priority technology and innovation sectors
Note: This funding is currently available only for the 2026 intake (pilot cohort).
Eligibility Criteria (2026 Entry)
To apply, you must:
- Have Home (UK) fee status
- Start your PhD in the 2026/2027 academic year
- Hold at least a First Class or Upper Second-Class (2:1) degree
- Have a background in:
- Biology
- Computer Science
- Or a related field
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with biological data analysis or simulations
- Familiarity with laboratory techniques
- Strong numerical and analytical skills
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Updated CV
- Personal Statement (300–500 words)
- Research Proposal (up to 1200 words) including:
- References
- Project plan
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- English language qualification (if required)
- Contact details of two referees
Submit all documents as one PDF file to:
studentships@brunel.ac.uk
Deadline: 15 August 2026 (12 noon UK time)
For more details, click here.
Meet the Supervisor – Dr Julia Reiss
Dr Julia Reiss is an environmental scientist specializing in:
- Aquatic ecosystems and pollution
- Microbial ecology and biodiversity
- Antibiotic and plastic pollution research
She has previously worked at:
- University of Roehampton (Senior Lecturer)
- Queen Mary University of London (Postdoctoral Research)
Her research focuses on microscopic organisms that drive ecosystem health, particularly in freshwater environments.
Why You Should Apply
- Work on a high-impact global environmental issue
- Gain experience in AI + environmental science integration
- Collaborate with industry (DeepMirror)
- Receive competitive UK PhD funding
- Be part of a prestigious UKRI programme
Important Notes
- This opportunity is primarily for Home (UK) students
- International applicants may be considered only within UKRI limits
- Applications must be complete and submitted before the deadline
- Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered
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