Assessing Chemical Exposure and Effects on Aquatic Wildlife in Protected Areas

This opportunity involves conducting a study to evaluate how veterinary medicines and pesticides affect aquatic wildlife in protected sites. Using passive sampling methods, researchers will measure chemical exposure levels in the environment and compare them against regulatory safety standards. The work will analyze both individual chemicals and their combined effects on aquatic species. Based on findings, the project will identify practical management solutions to reduce chemical harm—such as treating pollution at the source, improving wastewater treatment, or implementing site-specific interventions. Results will inform policy and conservation decisions for Natural England, the Pharmaceuticals in the Environment Group, and DEFRA's Biodiversity Pressures Team. Suppliers should have expertise in environmental chemistry, passive sampling technology, chemical analysis, ecological risk assessment, and aquatic toxicology.