About the Project:
The Green Sea Urchin (Strongylocentrotus droebachiensis) is a high value marine species in the Northeastern US. However, it is limited in supply due to declining stocks, increased regulation, and a lack of sustainable aquaculture. These issues have led larger processing companies to import sea urchins from outside the US and could lead to the exit of the remaining smaller processors who are reliant upon the regional fishery if stocks continue to decline. This multidisciplinary PhD project, funded by the USDA, will address some of the challenges which prevent growth and sustainability of this industry and close some major research gaps in this field.
The PhD will focus on the following areas:
1. Expanding aquaculture production of the green sea urchin by integrating hatchery produced seed with shellfish, and determining whether the sea urchins can be an effective tool to reduce problematic biofouling of shellfish and gear.
2. Conduct a long-term survey on wild green sea urchins to assess reproductive timing in relation to a changing climate, needed to determine the suitability of existing stock and harvesting regulations.
3. Develop translation tools needed for global sea urchin reproduction characterization.
Position details and Location: The position will ideally start in the Fall semester 2023 in the University of Rhode Island’s Department of Fisheries, Animal, and Veterinary Sciences within the College of Environment and Life Sciences (CELS) based within the state of Rhode Island, USA. Candidates who would strongly fit the criteria for this PhD who cannot start in the Fall could be considered for starting in Spring 2024. The work includes conducting monthly short-term sampling from Maine coastal waters, coordinating the logistics and experimental planning and implementation with a range of regional decision makers and stakeholders, using the Bay Campus aquarium facilities located in Narragansett (RI), lab work on the main Kingston Campus (RI), applying hatchery production and field grow out methods, communication of the science through outreach, and mentoring undergraduate students for experiential support of this science.
Preferred Candidate Background:
- MS degree in a relevant topic by the time of starting this position.
- Possess strong organizational, practical, and interpersonal skills.
- The candidate should be able to work independently as well as part of a team.
- They should be highly motivated with a keen interest in the research topic.
- Good knowledge of data visualization and analysis.
- Demonstrable knowledge of aquaculture, fisheries, and climate change.
- Experience with the husbandry and/or reproduction of marine invertebrates and running experiments.
- Has good attention for detail.
- Hold a valid driver’s license and vehicle and can conduct regular travel for sampling work.
- Applicants without an MS but with substantial experience in the above will also be considered.
Applications: Encouraged from all backgrounds and communities, with a commitment to having a diverse, inclusive team. Interested candidates should contact Dr Suckling (coleensuckling@uri.edu) with a resume which includes higher education grades/GPA, a 1-page cover letter outlining the motivation for the position, relevant skills and contact details for references and arrange a virtual meeting to discuss the opportunity.
Deadline: Applicants will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Visit www.coleensuckling.co.uk and https://web.uri.edu/favs/meet/coleen-suckling/ for more details.
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