Shellfish Positions Available

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Aquaculture Specialist (Massachusetts, USA): The Department of Fish and Game, Division of Marine Fisheries seeks qualified applicants to serve as an aquaculture and Vibrio specialist in the shellfish program. The individual in this position will oversee all activities involved in aquaculture, shellfish propagation, and Vibrio related activities. This encompasses managing the Division’s Shellfish Aquaculture and Propagation Project, involving permitting of aquaculture operations with permit specific conditions. The individual will also oversee and conduct site licensing surveys; monitor landings; review pathology and health reports and approve the introduction of organisms into Massachusetts coastal waters for the purposes of commercial aquaculture or shellfish propagation; conduct outreach activities with aquaculture industry members, town officials and the general public; provide technical assistance to coastal town shellfish department;, and other duties as required. In addition, the incumbent functions as the DMF Vibrio Coordinator which includes overseeing DMF activities related to the State’s Vibrio Control Plan in cooperation with the Department of Public Health. The incumbent works closely with the Program Manager and other senior program biologists in the development of aquaculture, shellfish propagation and vibrio policy and regulations. For full job description, qualifications, or to apply: Aquaculture Specialist (230008Q8) (taleo.net) (posted 8/31/2023).

Shellfish Classification Biologist - Aquatic Biologist II (Massachusetts, USA): The Department of Fish and Game, Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) seeks applicants for the position of Aquatic Biologist II. The individual in this position will assist in the operation of the Division of Marine Fisheries Shellfish Sanitation and Management Program out of the SouthCoast New Bedford Office, involving bacteriological water sampling, sanitary classification and monitoring of shellfish growing areas in addition to technical assistance, biological monitoring, shellfish mitigation project support and habitat protection to support the DMF in all activities related to shellfish growing area classification and compliance with the National Shellfish Sanitation Program (NSSP). For full job description, qualifications, or to apply: Shellfish Classification Biologist - Aquatic Biologist II (230008XJ) (taleo.net) (posted 8/31/2023).

 

Post doc position Molecular Breeding (Hong Kong):  The University of Hong Kong is seeking a talented, enthusiastic, and hardworking PhD degree holder in Aquaculture or Marine Biology or Molecular Ecology or related field with a relevant research experience in one of the following two positions and a proven track record.  You will be using variety of digital phenotypic data (images) and SNP markers to correlate with commercial traits to evaluate breeding values of wild and hatchery populations using integrated analyses of genomic data and machine learning tools. We have established collaborations with relevant experts to provide the post doc adequate training to kick start this innovative project. Experience in SNP analyses and selective breeding in any organisms (including plants) is an added advantage. As the work may need to collect data and samples from mainland China, Chinese language may be preferred though not necessary. Salary range from HK$ 28,000 to 35,000 per month (1 US$ = 7.8 HK$). For this salary range, the income tax is negligible in Hong Kong. Exact salary and period are negotiable.   How to apply: Please send your query or CV to Rajan via Email:[email protected] or WhatsApp: 852-95757923 or WeChat: wxid_s610q4iljvdu22. If interested and eligible, apply as soon as possible. We continue search until a suitable candidate is identified. For more information: https://www.hkuoyster.com (posted 8/24/2023)

Post doc position Environmental Proteomics (Hong Kong):   The University of Hong Kong is seeking a candidate to study how multiple-stressors, especially carbonate system dynamics, temperature and salinity are affecting production of stress response bioactive peptides using variety of proteomics tools. Identification of small bioactive peptides such as antioxidants and antimicrobial peptides from oyster blood may have both aquaculture and commercial values as nutrient supplement. The post-doc may work around the topic “Health of a carbon-neutral delicacy, the oyster, and the Environment”. Experience in environmental chemistry is an added advantage.  Salary range from HK$ 28,000 to 35,000 per month (1 US$ = 7.8 HK$). For this salary range, the income tax is negligible in Hong Kong. Exact salary and period are negotiable.   How to apply: Please send your query or CV to Rajan via Email:[email protected] or WhatsApp: 852-95757923 or WeChat: wxid_s610q4iljvdu22. If interested and eligible, apply as soon as possible. We continue search until a suitable candidate is identified. For more information: https://www.hkuoyster.com (posted 8/24/2023)

PhD position Oyster Hatchery (Hong Kong): The University of Hong Kong is seeking undergraduate or Master degree students with any science related subjects with relevant experience and interest with honors degree or degree with outstanding academic records (e.g. GPA >3.6/4 or 4.5/5 if only UG degree or GPA >3/4 or 3.8/5 in UG if apply with master degree).  Scholarship is HK$18,390 per month. For further details about scholarships and PhD study details of HKU’s, please visit the web page. Applicants from the world’s top 100 universities with high GPA – could try HKPF or HKU’s presidential scholarships – these awardees will receive a $27,600 per month as scholarship.  Research Direction: Digital Breeding: You will be using variety of digital phenotypic data (images) and Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) markers to correlate with commercial traits to evaluate breeding values of wild and hatchery populations using big data and machine learning tools. We have established collaborations with relevant experts to provide the student adequate training to kick start this impactful and innovative project - OR - Environmental Proteomics: You will study how climate change induced carbonate system variability and salinity are interactively affecting production of stress response bioactive peptides in oyster blood such as antioxidants and antimicrobial peptides (specifically “Peptidomics”) using the power of multi-dimensional mass spectrophotometry analyses. These peptides are expected to have commercial value as natural health supplements. Interest and study experience in biochemistry is important. The student or Post docs will be co-supervised by HKU’s proteomics expert, Prof Ivan Chu.  The successful applicants are expected to work in an interdisciplinary environment as a team with academics, government, oyster growers and aquaculture industry.   How to apply: Please send your query or CV to Rajan via Email:[email protected] or WhatsApp: 852-95757923 or WeChat: wxid_s610q4iljvdu22. If interested and eligible, apply as soon as possible. We continue search until a suitable candidate is identified. For more information: https://www.hkuoyster.com (posted 8/24/2023)

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Applied Shellfish Genetics (Maine, USA):  The Downeast Institute (DEI) is seeking an individual to help develop and implement an integrated program in shellfish genetics and breeding at DEI’s center for shellfish production and research using both traditional and novel approaches that will serve Maine’s shellfish aquaculture industry. The program will include selective breeding, ploidy manipulation, and genomics. The overarching objectives of DEI’s program are to produce disease-resistant, fast-growing shellfish varieties with high meat quality. While DEI cultures nine bivalve species, those of immediate interest include soft-shell clams, eastern oysters, and blue mussels. The research will involve investigations focused on selection for cold tolerance (oysters), heat tolerance (blue mussels), and field survival (soft-shell clams). The geneticist will be part of an experienced team working on project and grant application development.  The successful candidate should have a Ph.D. in Genetics, Marine Biology, or a related field, with a specialization in genetics and genomics. The candidate should have a thorough understanding of modern genetic and genomic technologies, such as genome or transcriptome sequencing and genotyping, and can utilize these technologies to conduct research in aquaculture breeding and population genetics. Proven experience in genetics breeding including but not limited to genomic selection, genome-wide association study, and strong proficiency in statistical analysis and bioinformatics, including experience with relevant software and programming languages (e.g., R, Python) are preferred. In addition, excellent communication and writing skills, and a passion and ability to lead and mentor graduate and undergraduate interns are important attributes we seek in the successful candidate. The position is based at Downeast Institute, 39 Wildflower Lane, Beals, Maine. Please send CV, cover letter, and the names/contact information of three references to Dr. Brian Beal at [email protected]. For full job description: https://downeastinstitute.org/postdoctoral-research-associate-in-applied-shellfish-genetics/  This position will remain open until filled. (posted 7/18/23)

Oyster Farm Technician (Florida, USA):  Treasure Coast Shellfish, LLC raises eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica) as part of the growing oyster aquaculture industry on the East Coast of Florida.  Candidates are invited to apply for the open positions of oyster farm technicians.  Those candidates selected will learn all aspects of working on an oyster farm & in our processing facility.  Both full-time and part-time/seasonal opportunities are available. Preferred Experience:  Prior aquaculture experience is preferred; A sincere interest in aquaculture/shellfish culture; curious, energetic, & self-motivated individuals who want to learn about the oyster aquaculture industry - in particular, the farming process. Job Requirements:  Must be at least 18 years old; Must be organized, punctual, & on time for work; Must have a valid driver’s license & reliable transportation to work sites in Indian River, St. Lucie, & Martin counties; Must be capable of understanding & following instructions from the supervisor; Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions - wet, cold, hot, dry, & rough water, at various times of the day, including early morning hours, evenings, & weekends when necessary; Must be able to swim; Must be physically able to lift, push, & pull up to 60 pounds; Must wear proper safety and personal protective equipment (PPE) when necessary and comply with all health & safety guidelines; Must be able to speak & understand English; Must work well with other crew members, & independently; Must maintain work area(s) & be respectful of neighboring communities & businesses;• Must have their own supply of dive mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, dive booties, rain gear etc.  Preferred Experience but not Required: Education: Bachelor’s; CPR Certified; Boat handling experience; Scuba Certified; Knowledgeable about Florida's Indian River Lagoon ecosystem; Shellfish experience & knowledge.  Starting pay is commensurate with experience. Full-time, Part-time, Temporary Pay: $12.00 - $17.00 per hour.  Application: Submit a cover letter, resumé & list of at least 3 references to Nicolette Mariano via email. [email protected]. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please email Nicolette with any questions (posted 7/15/23)

Recruiter/Project Coordinator I-IV (Texas, USA): Texas A&M University is seeking candidates for a Recruiter to promote a new oyster aquaculture training program.  The program will have three modules: Farming, Hatchery and Business Modeling. The recruiter will coordinate and outreach events, workshops, travel to local high schools/community colleges/career fairs/etc. and outreach to different communities to promote the program. Funding is confirmed through January 2027 and continued employment is dependent on funding availability.  The Recruiter, under supervision, will assist in increasing the number of enrollees in the Oyster Resource and Recovery Center workforce development award from Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) at the Harte Research Institute (HRI) online training module. The The Recruiter will be responsible for creating industry, university, and government partners to promote bottom oyster aquaculture to prospective Texans. Provides back-up assistance with projects, events, and activities of the department.  For full job description and qualifications per level, visit: https://tamus.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/TAMUCC_External/job/Project-Coordinator-I---IV_R-063126-1 (posted 6/29/2023)

 

PhD Candidate (Rhode Island, USA): The position will ideally start in the Fall semester 2023 at the University of Rhode Island in the 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.  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: 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; 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; Develop translation tools needed for global sea urchin reproduction characterization.  Preferred qualifications:  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.   Interested candidates should contact Dr Suckling ([email protected]) with a resume, 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. Applicants will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Visit www.coleensuckling.co.uk for more details. (posted 6/2/23)