A new UK training programme is helping PhD students turn lab breakthroughs into real-world solutions to cut pollution, fight climate change and create cleaner industries.
Brunel will train four PhD researchers through the new Engineering Biology for Environmental Applications programme, called EngBio4Env. Two studentships are funded by UKRI, with two more backed by industry.
They’ll work on projects using AI-enabled biology, systems modelling, circular bioeconomy innovation, and tools to support better environmental decision-making.
Led by Cranfield University and funded by UKRI, EngBio4Env is part of a national push to grow skills in sustainable innovation. It brings together experts in science, engineering and policy to help solve urgent environmental problems.
The programme will train 52 PhD researchers across six universities, including Brunel, Newcastle, Glasgow and Southampton. It’s supported by the National Physical Laboratory and the National Measurement Laboratory, with global links to the US, Japan, Spain, Brazil and Ireland.
Dr Eleni Iacovidou, who leads Brunel’s part in the programme, said: "EngBio4Env is equipping a new generation of researchers to work across science, policy and industry. We’re proud to be part of shaping research that tackles real problems — and makes real change."
Brunel will focus on creating ready-to-use data-driven technologies with direct environmental impact. Projects will look at how biology and tech can be used together to clean up pollution, recover valuable resources, and build sustainable systems.
Dr Michelle Sahai, Lecturer in Biosciences (Drug Discovery) will teach AI-enabled molecular modelling and data-driven bioscience, supporting students to develop computational tools. Dr Sam Willcocks, Director of the Antimicrobial Innovations Centre, will teach microbiology and molecular techniques, while Professor Justin Fisher, Director of Brunel Public Policy, will train students across the consortium in policy.
Engineering biology uses living systems to develop new technologies — from bacteria that break down waste, to biological sensors that monitor water quality. The field has huge potential to tackle climate and environmental threats but needs new skills and faster ways to move from research to real-world use.
EngBio4Env was co-designed with 25 industry and government partners to close that gap and train researchers to work across disciplines.
The programme is part of the UK’s National Engineering Biology Programme and is supported through UKRI’s Engineering Biology initiative. The Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) is the sponsoring and administering council.
Applications for Brunel’s studentships are not yet open. Updates will be shared when confirmed.
More on the UKRI investment: https://www.ukri.org/news/ukri-doctoral-training-investment-set-to-power-uk-growth