About the Project
The Parasitology Research Group at the Institute of Aquaculture, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling is pleased to invite applications for this fully-funded PhD Studentship (fees and subsistence at current UK/EU rates).
Project supervisory team
Dr Giuseppe Paladini, Prof. James Bron, Prof. Herve Migaud (University of Stirling, UK), Dr Andy Shinn (Fish Vet Group Asia, Thailand), and Dr Benedikt Frenzl (Stingray Marine Solutions AS, Norway).
Background
Sea lice, represented by the two main species Lepeophtheirus salmonis and Caligus elongatus, are considered one of the biggest challenges for the aquaculture industry, following their devastating impacts on Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar, farming in the Northern Hemisphere. Traditionally, the control methods included mainly the use of chemicals. However, the use of treatment drugs poses other risks associated with the environmental impact, and in addition to this, sea lice resistance to most of the currently used chemotherapeutants has been demonstrated. In the past few years, there has been a tendency to move towards alternative, non-chemical strategies, such as the use of cleaner fish in cohabitation with salmon, snorkels and skirts in the cages, submerged feeding strategies, etc.
Stingray Marine Solutions developed a system using optical tools to control sea lice infections in net pens by means of an innovative and sustainable method. The use of laser technology, implemented by camera and computer vision for removing sea lice directly from the fish, has a great potential in the global aquaculture industry.
Aim of the project
The aim of this four year collaborative PhD project between the Institute of Aquaculture, University of Stirling, and Stingray Marine Solutions AS, is to test the general performance (lice removal) of laser technology following a series of lab-based and field experiments. The work will be mainly carried our in Scotland; however, short periods in Norway may be required if necessary. The efficiency of the system will be studied for both sea lice species, for different stages of development and for different sizes. These series of trials would allow to generate data on the efficacy of laser technology in salmon farming and also to evaluate the effect on the health and welfare of the treated fish.
How to apply and closing date
To apply, send a covering letter and supporting documents to [Email Address Removed] by 17:00 GMT on Saturday 21st January 2017. Candidates will then be selected and interviewed soon after. The PhD will start by March 2017.
Applicants are asked to enclose the following supporting documents with their application:
- CV/Resume
- Copy of degree certificate(s)
- Copy of language test (if available)
- Copy of Passport / National ID card
- Copy of driving licence
- Personal statement (cover letter)
- Reference 1 (should be from an academic who has knowledge of your academic ability from your most recent study/programme)
- Reference 2 (should be from an academic who has knowledge of your academic ability)
Essential criteria
Applicants must have, or expect to obtain, a First / Upper Second Class BSc / MSc in a relevant subject (e.g. biological, medical or veterinary science). Applicants should hold a valid UK or EU driving licence, should be comfortable with working with live animals and working away from home for short-medium periods in remote locations (farms) as required by the project, and should be able to communicate in English.
Desirable criteria
Some experience/knowledge of aquaculture, parasitology, computer systems, image analysis, optical tools and statistics will be an advantage, but is not essential. Candidates should, however, demonstrate the commitment to be trained and work in both academic and farm environments.
Funding Notes
The studentship offers an annual stipend for three years (with a possibility for a fourth year) and payment of tuition fees. Due to funding restrictions, this studentship only provides funding for students from the UK/EU.
Potential applicants are welcome to contact Dr Giuseppe Paladini ([Email Address Removed]) for more detailed information or with informal queries.