ACCE+ DLA programme: Ecological and evolutionary consequences of nanoplastic pollution in the water flea, Daphnia magna

Plastic pollution is one of the most urgent global environmental challenges, with 60% of all plastic ever produced ending up in the environment. Over time, this waste breaks down into microplastics (particles smaller than 5mm) and nanoplastics (1-1000nm), which pose significant risks to both ecosystems and human health when ingested. Nanoplastics are particularly concerning because their size enables them to penetrate tissues that microplastics cannot, even crossing cell membranes. While advances in nanomedicine have revealed that nanoparticle properties (size, shape, charge, and polymer type) significantly impact their biological effects, the specific dangers posed by nanoplastics remain unclear. To date, most studies have used laboratory-based ‘model’ polystyrene nanoparticles, which may not accurately reflect real-world nanoplastic pollution.

Objectives

This exciting PhD project invites you to explore the cutting-edge field of nanoplastic pollution. Your key aim will be to synthesize and characterize nanoplastic particles derived from common everyday plastics. These particles will then be used to test how their properties influence toxicity, bioaccumulation, and transmission across generations in living organisms. Using Daphnia magna—a model aquatic species—you will investigate how various biological and environmental factors modify nanoplastic behaviour and toxicity. In the final phase, you will take your research from the lab to the field, utilizing our state-of-the-art mesocosm facility to study the long-term ecological and evolutionary effects of nanoplastic exposure in whole, replicated ecosystems.

Throughout the project, you’ll receive support from our CASE partner, Steve Morris from Defra’s Water Quality Evidence & Policy team, and Dr Tom McDonald from the Henry Royce institute ensuring that your research stays aligned with policy needs and industry applications.

Research Environment, Skills, and Training

You will join a vibrant, interdisciplinary research environment that promotes collaboration between environmental science, ecotoxicology, evolutionary biology, analytical chemistry and nanotechnology. You’ll develop a range of sought-after skills, including nanoparticle synthesis and characterization, toxicological assays, experimental design, statistics, microscopy, image analysis and fieldwork. Moreover, you’ll gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment, such as our mesocosms, providing invaluable insight into ecosystem-level research. There will be opportunities to work with industry and policy experts, enhancing your understanding of the real-world implications of your research.

Regular team meetings, seminars, and collaborative partnerships will enhance your professional development. You will also present your work at international conferences and contribute to high-impact publications.

Novelty and Timeliness

With nanoplastic pollution emerging as a critical threat to biodiversity and human health, this project offers a unique opportunity to address knowledge gaps in the field. By synthesizing realistic nanoplastic particles and studying their effects in ecologically relevant species, your work will generate novel data with significant implications for water quality management, conservation strategies, and industrial policies. This research is not only timely but critical in shaping future environmental policies and safeguarding ecosystem health.

Applicant suitability

We are committed to fostering an inclusive research environment that values diversity and promotes equity. We therefore encourage applications from all backgrounds. We are looking for enthusiastic individuals with a strong background in biology, environmental science or a related field. Experience in working with micro/nanoplastics and Daphnia is desirable, but not essential as full training will be provided. Most importantly, we seek candidates who are curious, creative, and passionate about the plastic pollution problem.

How to Apply

Please see the ACCE website for all details of how to apply to the programme at each ACCE+ institution: https://accedtp.ac.uk/how-to-apply/. 

All applicants to ACCE+ must complete the ACCE+ personal statement proforma. This is instead of a personal/supporting statement or cover letter. The proforma is designed to standardise this part of the application to minimise the difference between those who are given support and those who are not. Candidates should also submit a CV and the contact details of two referees.

Part-Time Study Options

All ACCE+ PhDs are available as part time or full time, with part time being a minimum of 50% of full time. Please discuss potential part time arrangements with the primary supervisor before applying to the programme. 

Project CASE Status

This project is a CASE project. Your project will be co-supervised by the non-academic partner organisation, and you will spend 3-6 months on a placement with your CASE partner in their workplace. You will experience training, facilities and expertise not available in an academic setting, and will build business and research collaborations. 

Candidate webinar

The project primary supervisor will hold a candidate Zoom webinar in December 2024 to discuss the project with interested candidates. Please register here if you would like to join!