Professor Caroline Gauchotte-Lindsay she/her

After completing my first degree in France in Natural Sciences, covering chemistry, physics, and many areas of biology, I specialized in Forensic Science and Analytical Chemistry at the master’s level. My PhD research took me into Environmental Engineering, and I now work at the intersection of analytical chemistry and environmental biotechnology.

I’m passionate about using cutting-edge chemistry to solve major environmental problems, with a particular focus on harnessing the incredible engineering power of microbes. My group pushes the boundaries of analytical chemistry to optimise biofilters for drinking water supplies, develop bioremediation technologies for vacant and derelict land, and ensure the safe reuse of sewage sludge. We’re also exploring ways to recycle pharmaceuticals from waste.

In recent years, we’ve have also focused on environmental sensors, both optical and electrochemical. These tools work well in the lab but often struggle in real-world conditions, presenting a significant challenge. My work has always been interdisciplinary, but I sometimes get frustrated when ‘interdisciplinary’ remains more ‘multidisciplinary,’ with each team member staying within their niche. I want us to break through these boundaries—this includes integrating social sciences and humanities, because technology alone can’t solve the challenges our planet and its people are facing.

I’m particularly interested in applying the One Health and circular economy frameworks to all of my research. I’d love to collaborate with colleagues to develop digital twins of biotreatment processes in complex, real-world environments.