CR2025_11 Digging Deeper: Unravelling the Impact of Wastewater Treatment Plants on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

Lead Supervisor: Susheel Bhanu Busi, UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology

Email: susbus@ceh.ac.uk

Co-supervisors: Soon Gweon, Department of Ecology, University of Reading; Daniel Read, UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology,

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a global health crisis, threatening our ability to combat infectious diseases. The microbiome of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) consists of diverse microorganisms, including bacteria, archaea, and fungi, which collectively influence treatment efficiency and environmental health. Recent studies have detected AMR genes in wastewater ecosystems, but our understanding of their abundance, diversity, and dynamics across different treatment types and operational conditions remains limited. Moreover, the role of the WWTP microbiome in shaping AMR gene dissemination is not well-characterized. Understanding these processes is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate AMR’s impact on public health and the environment.

The Problem: The presence and abundance of AMR in WWTPs remain complex and understudied phenomena. We lack a comprehensive understanding of the extent, composition, and factors associated with AMR in these systems.

The Student’s Role: As a Ph.D. student in this project, you will play a pivotal role in unravelling the mysteries of AMR across various WWTPs, regions, and operational processes. Your work will involve several exciting scientific aspects:

• Role of Treatment Conditions: You will investigate how different treatment processes and operational parameters influence AMR gene selection and reveal critical insights into the factors shaping AMR dissemination.
• Mapping and Modelling: You will develop innovative mapping and modelling approaches to track the dispersion of AMR within WWTPs, allowing for the identification of high-risk areas and transmission pathways. This aspect of the research will provide valuable insights into how AMR spreads through wastewater systems.
• Cutting-Edge Techniques: Your research will incorporate advanced molecular techniques, including DNA extraction, high-throughput sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis, to decipher the composition and abundance of AMR genes and pathogens within WWTPs.
• Microbial Interactions: You will unravel the intricate microbial networks contributing to AMR evolution, providing a deeper understanding of how these genes are transmitted and maintained in wastewater ecosystems.

Why This is Exciting Science:

• Global Relevance: AMR is a critical global health issue, and your research will enhance our understanding of how it spreads in wastewater environments. This knowledge is vital for tackling one of the most pressing challenges in modern medicine.
• Innovation: You will be at the forefront of innovation in AMR dynamics, utilizing state-of-the-art molecular techniques and data analysis methods. This project will equip you with valuable technical skills and expertise.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The project fosters collaboration across scientific disciplines, allowing you to work with experts in environmental science, public health, and wastewater management. This interdisciplinary approach is both intellectually stimulating and enriching.
• Real-World Impact: Your research will have real-world implications for public health and environmental protection. By uncovering the mechanisms of AMR dynamics and the underlying factors influencing them, you will contribute to the development of strategies to safeguard both human health and ecosystems.
• Career Opportunities: This project will provide you with a unique skill set and research experience that is highly sought after by academia, industry, and government agencies. It opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities in the growing field of AMR research and environmental science.

In summary, this Ph.D. project offers an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of scientific discovery, addressing a global health challenge with real-world relevance. If you are motivated by the prospect of innovative research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and making a tangible impact on public health, we invite you to join us in this exciting journey to unravel the mysteries of AMR in wastewater treatment plants and contribute to a healthier future for all.

Training opportunities:

The student will receive training in experimental design, molecular wet-lab techniques (DNA extraction, PCR, sequencing), and dry-lab methods (data processing, assembly, MAG generation, AMR characterization). Emphasis will be placed on functional annotation, particularly identifying AMR genes. Skills include bioinformatics, data visualization, statistics, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ethical research. The project will prepare the student for metagenomic research, fostering proficiency in both laboratory and computational techniques, and encouraging publication and conference presentations. This interdisciplinary experience will enhance adaptability and expertise across environmental science, soil science, and data science.

Student profile:

This project is ideal for students with a degree in microbiology, environmental science, or a related field. The candidate should have laboratory skills in molecular biology, experience in data analysis, and an interest in interdisciplinary collaboration. Fieldwork experience is beneficial but not required. Strong communication and problem-solving skills, motivation, and a passion for tackling antimicrobial resistance are essential. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds who bring unique perspectives and are committed to addressing environmental and microbial challenges through innovative research approaches.

Please note: Due to the nature of this project and to comply with visa regulations, only Home students should apply.