External and Internal Exposure Characteristics of Atmospheric Emerging Pollutants in Multiple Media and the Health Effects

About the project

About the Project To cultivate research talents with global leadership, interdisciplinary innovation capabilities, and international research collaboration capabilities, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) fully leverages its characteristics of international education and builds upon the long-established strategic cooperation among XJTLU, Xi’an Jiaotong University (XJTU), and the University of Liverpool (UoL). This initiative integrates top-tier research resources to launch a Joint Doctoral Supervision Programme across the three institutions. This project will focus on typical atmospheric emerging contaminants (ECs), including microplastics, phthalates (PAEs), perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), and antibiotics. We will systematically investigate the associations among inhalation exposure, internal exposure, and related health effects of ECs. Gaseous and PM2.5 samples will be collected simultaneously across four seasons from three typical functional zones (commercial, industrial, and agricultural areas), to characterize the spatiotemporal distribution and inhalation exposure levels of ECs. Concurrently, long-term residents or occupationally exposed population will be recruited from these typical functional zones to collect biological samples (blood, urine) for analyzing the internal exposure levels of ECs and related biomarkers. The associations between external and internal exposure to ECs will be evaluated using correlation and multivariate regression analyses. Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) will be applied to characterize the dose - response relationships between pollutant exposure and health indicators. These findings aim to fill the gap regarding the link between exposure to atmospheric ECs and health effects, providing a scientific basis for the prevention and control of ECs. Joint Supervisory Team: Principal Supervisor: Dr. Peng Zhao XJTLU Co-supervisor: Dr. Lei Han XJTU supervisor: Prof. Hongmei Xu UoL supervisor: Dr. Yuan Shi Requirements: A UK first-class or upper second-class honours Bachelor's degree and a UK Master's degree with Merit (or their equivalent) are required for PhD admissions. Exceptional candidates holding only a Bachelor's degree may be considered on an individual basis. Evidence of good spoken and written English is essential. The candidate should have an IELTS (or equivalent) score of 6.5 or above, if the first language is not English. For more information about entry requirements and admission procedures of PhD programme at XJTLU, please visit: Entry Requirement - Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University How to Apply - Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University Other Requirements (if any): Applicants are generally expected to have a background in environmental science and engineering, analytical chemistry, atmospheric science, toxicology, or related disciplines. Proficiency in operating instruments such as GC-MS and LC-MS/MS is highly desirable. Candidates should be skilled in data analysis using R, Python, or similar tools. Familiarity with the collection and analysis procedures for biological samples (e.g., blood, urine) is also required. Additionally, candidates should possess abilities in experimental design, and English scientific writing. Programme Structure and Fees: Doctoral students in the joint programme are registered with both XJTLU and the UoL. Upon successful completion of the programme, the students will be awarded a PhD degree from University of Liverpool. During their doctoral studies at XJTLU, students are expected to conduct research at XJTU as visiting students. Additionally, students have the opportunity to apply for a short-term research visit to the UoL if the project requires it. The joint doctoral programme is offered on a full-time basis, with a typical duration of three to four years. The tuition fee is RMB 99,000 per year. How to Apply: Interested applicants are advised to email peng.zhao@xjtlu.edu.cn and xuhongmei@xjtu.edu.cn the following documents for initial review and assessment (Please include the project title in the subject line): CV Two formal reference letters Personal statement outlining your interest in the position Certificates of English language qualifications (IELTS or equivalent) Full academic transcripts in both Chinese and English (for international students, only the English version is required) Verified certificates of education qualifications in both Chinese and English (for international students, only the English version is required) PDF copy of Master Degree dissertation (or an equivalent writing sample) and examiners reports available

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