[School of Engineering PhD Scholarships] Impact of microplastics on soil organic carbon storage: column experiments and process-based modelling

About the project

About the Project Impact of microplastics on soil organic carbon storage: column experiments and process-based modelling Microplastics are now found in soils worldwide, particularly in agricultural land where plastics are widely used in food production, wastewater reuse and land management. While the environmental impacts of microplastic pollution have received increasing attention, little is known about how these particles affect the ability of soils to store and preserve organic carbon. Understanding these interactions is critical because soils contain more carbon than the atmosphere and vegetation combined, and any changes in this carbon pool can have marked implications for climate change and food security. This PhD project will investigate how microplastics influence the retention, transport and long-term storage of soil organic carbon. The research will combine innovative laboratory experiments with advanced numerical modelling to provide new insights into the interactions between plastic pollution, soil processes and carbon cycling, with substantial impacts on climate change and food security. The experimental work will use soil column systems to examine how different types of microplastics alter carbon transport and storage in soils under controlled conditions. The project will investigate how microplastic characteristics, including polymer type, shape, ageing and concentration, affect the movement and retention of dissolved and particulate organic carbon within soils. Experimental results will be integrated into a process-based modelling framework to simulate coupled water flow, microplastic transport and soil carbon dynamics. The model will be used to identify the processes controlling carbon retention, evaluate potential long-term impacts of microplastic accumulation, and explore future scenarios under different environmental and land-management conditions. This will provide a unique opportunity to combine experimental observations with predictive modelling approaches. The project addresses an important knowledge gap at the interface of environmental pollution, soil science and climate change research. It will generate fundamental understanding of whether microplastics enhance carbon retention, promote carbon loss, or alter the long-term stability of soil organic matter. The outcomes will support improved assessments of soil health, carbon sequestration potential and the wider environmental consequences of plastic pollution. The student will join an active and interdisciplinary research environment within the Department of Civil Engineering and Management at the University of Manchester and will work closely with experts in geoenvironmental engineering, soil carbon cycle processes and numerical modelling. The project offers training in experimental design, laboratory techniques, computational modelling, scientific communication and publication in top general journals from the supervisors, providing excellent preparation for careers in academia, environmental consultancy, government research organisations and the wider environmental sector. This project is expected to start in September 2027. Before you apply: We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisors for this project before you apply. How to apply: To be considered for this project you must complete a formal application through our online application portal. If you already have an applicant account this link will directly open an application for PhD School of Engineering Scholarships . If you don’t already have an applicant account, please follow the instructions here. . When applying, please specify the full title and supervisor/s of the project, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees. You must also upload a Supporting Statement describing the motivation to apply to the project, your CV and transcripts of awarded and in-progress university qualifications . Please note late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester and central to all our activities. A diverse research community strengthens creativity, productivity and quality, while increasing the societal and economic impact of our work. We welcome applicants from all career paths, backgrounds and sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation or transgender status. We welcome applications from candidates returning to study after a career break or experience in other roles. Flexible study arrangements may be available, including part-time study at 50%, 60% or 80%, subject to the requirements of the project and funder. Eligibility : The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD such as civil engineering, environmental engineering, geosciences, soil science, environmental science, biogeochemistry, geohydrology, carbon cycle (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD such as such as civil engineering, environmental engineering, geosciences, soil science, environmental science, biogeochemistry, geohydrology, carbon cycle (or international equivalent). Previous research experience in laboratory research, soil and carbon cycle modelling, data analysis or programming is desirable. This project will remain open until filled. If your application is submitted by 1 st November 2026, you can expect a decision by 18 th December 2026. If your application is submitted by 15 th January 2027, you can expect a decision by 30 th March 2027. Self or externally funded students can also be considered for this project. FSESoE

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