PhD Scholarship - Low Trophic Aquaculture

Job Details

PhD Opportunity – Integration of low-trophic aquaculture species in NZ

There is a distinct need to diversify the portfolio of species grown in Aotearoa New Zealand to develop environmentally and economically sustainable aquaculture. Many low-trophic-level species (e.g., primary producers, filter-feeders, grazers, deposit-feeders) are ideally suited for aquaculture due to their range of important ecological functions and untapped commercial potential. In the past 30 years or so, there has been much interest in developing aquaculture systems that integrate a range species across trophic levels, however, there is still a lack of knowledge about how species interact in the context of multispecies or multitrophic farming practices that maximise resource use and reduce environmental impact. Therefore, the Cawthron Institute and the Joint Graduate School with the University of Auckland (UoA) are seeking a PhD student to evaluate trophic interactions among low-trophic species to enable informed species selection and the development of multispecies, or integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) in New Zealand. The PhD candidate will be supported by a strong team of scientists from Cawthron, UoA, and Nestlé R&D.

We are looking to recruit a highly motivated and organised PhD student to experimentally determine nutrient transfer across trophic levels with a focus on filter-feeding mussels (Perna canaliculus) and seaweed interactions, to evaluate suitability of the algal biomass for the integration of grazers, and to evaluate a prototype land-based semi- or fully recirculated system that includes multiple trophic levels.

Applicants must have a good academic record, strong written and verbal communication skills, a working knowledge of experimental design, experience working independently and as part of a team. Preferably, with experience working in an analytical lab (i.e., seawater chemistry and tissue specific biomarkers) and with animal or seaweed husbandry. Additional requirements include a degree (M.Sc. or Bachelor with Honours in a relevant field such as Marine Science, Ecology, or Biology). Because the research will take place at the Cawthron Aquaculture Park, candidates with a current driver’s license are also preferred.

The PhD position fully covers tuition fees and a scholarship with a tax-free annual living stipend, and research expenses for three years. If of interest, please send a one-page cover letter describing what makes you a good candidate, along with a CV and academic transcript to Dr Leo Zamora (leo.zamora@auckland.ac.nz) and Dr Paul South (paul.south@cawthron.org.nz).

Requirements

MSc or BScHons with research component.

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