The coexistence of aquaculture and inshore fisheries in Scotland: An ecotoxicological approach to establish potential contamination pathways in commercially important crustacean species

Inshore fisheries are integral to the economy of coastal communities in Scotland and provide a vital societal role continuing a long tradition of fishing heritage. They are however, increasingly under pressure to manage shared resources in inshore waters with a rapidly expanding aquaculture industry. Safeguarding shellfish health and diversity in response to these pressures is paramount to the survival of the industry, and this requires understanding of interactions between fishery resources and aquaculture activities at the level of ecosystem structure and dynamics.
A growing awareness of potential conflict between shared marine resources related to ecological stressors is becoming apparent. Whilst aquaculture facilities are highly regulated with regards to environmental impacts from point-source pollutants, concerns have been raised by inshore shellfisheries regarding impacts to commercially important crustaceans

This project will investigate the interaction between these two sectors focusing on the ecotoxicological effects of therapeutics used in salmon aquaculture in Orkney as a case study applicable to the rest of Scotland.

Applicants should have a first-class honours degree or a 2.1 honours degree plus Masters (or equivalent) in a relevant subject (marine biology, fisheries, marine ecotoxicology). Although desirable, an MSc is not mandatory. Highly motivated applicants with a strong ecotoxicology and fisheries (shellfish) background are particularly encouraged to apply. It would be desirable for candidates to have experience in the Scottish fisheries sector and an understanding of potential issues associated with fisheries and aquaculture co-existence. You will be an excellent communicator with an enthusiastic personality. Scholarships will be awarded by competitive merit, taking into account the academic ability of the applicant. This post will be split between the Orkney and Edinburgh campuses.

To apply you must complete our online application form. Please select PhD Environment (Orkney campus) and include the full project title, reference number and supervisor on your application form. You must also provide a CV, a supporting statement, a copy of your degree certificate, relevant transcripts and an academic reference. For further information about this project please contact Dr Angela Capper

As part of a SUPER DTP Cohort you will be enrolled in the SUPER Graduate School and onto the SUPER Post Graduate Certificate in Researcher Professional Development. The formal start date is 30th September and you will be expected to attend a SUPER DTP induction event in Glasgow on 1st October.