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Identification and quantification of PFAS using a combination of metabolomics and Raman spectroscopy

Funding
Funded
Study mode
Full-time
Apply by
Year round
Start date
Year round
Subject area
Chemistry
How to apply
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Overview

This is an exciting PhD project within the Centre for Metabolomics Research at the University of Liverpool.
Powerful new analytical strategies will be developed for detecting per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and their metabolites. Combining the precision of LC-MS with the molecular spatial insights of vibrational spectroscopy will allow us to tackle one of today’s most pressing environmental challenges.

About this opportunity

This PhD proposal is to develop robust analyses of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and any metabolites generated using a combined approach of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and vibrational spectroscopy.  LC-MS will enable precise identification and quantification of PFAS in human biofluids and environmental samples through solid-phase extraction (SPE) and prior LC using both reversed phase and hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC), providing high sensitivity, selectivity and coverage.  In this complementary programme of work, Raman spectroscopy will offer rapid, non-destructive molecular fingerprinting, useful for screening and structural characterization, especially of solid-phase or surface-bound PFAS.  Moreover, the PFAS Raman spectra are entirely predictable with computational modelling and chemical maps of PFAS can show their distribution on surfaces, and we expect the same from optical photothermal infrared (O-PTIR) spectroscopy that can be collected simultaneously with Raman spectra.  This dual-method approach enhances analytical confidence by cross-validating results and broadening detection capabilities. The integrated use of MS-based metabolomics and Raman spectroscopy will support comprehensive PFAS monitoring, aiding in contamination assessment and regulatory compliance.

Training:

  • Roy Goodacre (CMR) will supervise mass spectrometry-based studies on PFAS and any metabolites found in environmental systems
  • Howbeer Muhamadali (CMR) will supervise Raman and O-PTIR spectroscopy analyses on PFAS as well as data processing aspects of the project.
  • Adam Burke (CMR) will supervise the MS optimisation and analyses of PFAS.

 

Papers:

  • Beale, D.J., Sinclair, G.M., Shah, R., Paten, A.M., Kumar, A., Long, S.M., Vardy, S. Jones, A.O.H. (2022) A review of omics-based PFAS exposure studies reveals common biochemical response pathways. Science of the Total Environment 845: 157255.
  • Rehman, A.U., Crimi, M. & Andreescu, S. (2023) Current and emerging analytical techniques for the determination of PFAS in environmental samples. Trends in Environmental Analytical Chemistry 37: e00198.

Who is this opportunity for?

You should have, or expect to a 2i or above in Biochemistry, Chemistry or a related field.  Experience in analytical chemistry and chemometrics/machine learning would be advantageous.

Further reading

Further work from our research group is found here: https://biospec.net/publications/  – full text is freely available for all published papers.

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How to apply

  1. 1. Contact supervisors

    Supervisors:

    Roy Goodacre Roy.goodacre@liverpool.ac.uk https://biospec.net
    Howbeer Muhamadali Howbeer.Muhamad-Ali@liverpool.ac.uk https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/people/howbeer-muhamad-ali

  2. 2. Prepare your application documents

    Applications need:

    • Cover Letter with a personal statement explaining why you want to do this PhD.
    • Cover Letter should include experience in analytical science, biochemistry and or computation.
    • Detailed CV
    • As the PhD is self-funded: please provide evidence that funding is in place for the full 4 years of the PhD programme.

     

  3. 3. Apply

    Finally, register and apply online. You'll receive an email acknowledgment once you've submitted your application. We'll be in touch with further details about what happens next.

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Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)

Full-time place, per year - £5,006

International fees

Full-time place, per year - £31,250

Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this project.

Funding your PhD

The project is self-funded.  Therefore, funding needs to include tuition fees, bench fees, living expenses.

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Contact us

Have a question about this research opportunity or studying a PhD with us? Please get in touch with us, using the contact details below, and we’ll be happy to assist you.

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