Advancing AI tools for hazard detection in potable water sources

Provision of critical and safe drinking water to Australian communities requires ongoing and accurate monitoring of water supplies for effective decision-making.

Current monitoring relies on several analytical methods and large data sets to investigate subsets of potentially hazardous contaminants.

New hazard monitoring tools are urgently required to detect a comprehensive range of contaminants such as pesticides or disinfection by-products and respond to contamination events from spills or algal bloom incidents. 
 

QAEHS is internationally recognised for research excellence in the environmental sciences.

The centre has established state-of-the-art sampling, analysis, and archiving facilities located at UQ's Dutton Park Campus. QAEHS maintains 7x LC MS/MS and 5x GC-MS instruments, with a dedicated trace analytical laboratory and state-of-the-art instrumentation. You will join a cohort of >30 HDR students researching human and environmental exposure to environmental contaminants.

You will have access to centre-level travel support award scheme supporting participation at international conferences. You will receive full access to your own computer and work station. The research is supported through a number of grants and collaborations including a generous research consumable budget. 

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history.

A working knowledge of environmental science, analytical chemistry, computer science, and/or mathematics would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the fields of environmental science, analytical chemistry, computer science, and/or mathematics and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of analytical chemistry or machine learning tools is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 14 June, 2026 25 December, 2030.

Before you apply

1. Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
2. Prepare your documentation.
3. If you have any questions about whether the project is suitable for your research interests, contact Associate Professor Sarit Kaserzon (k.sarit@uq.edu.au).

When you apply

To apply, submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the program. You don't need to apply separately for the project or scholarship. How to submit an EOI

In your EOI, complete the ‘Scholarship/Sponsorship’ section with the following details:

1. Are you applying for an advertised project: 'Yes'
2. Project: 'Research project scholarship'
3. Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: POTABLE-KASERZON
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/advancing-ai-tools-hazard-detection-potable-water-sources-0

Submit an EOI