Shellfish Positions Available

Cultivation R&D Manager and five Production Technicians (Portugal): Oceano Fresco is looking to fulfill 6 positions.  Cultivation R&D Manager: The main responsibility will be executing the bivalve breeding program and developing R&D activities to optimize hatchery cultivation process from the broodstock conditioning and spawning to larval and seed culture, including optimization of the phytoplankton culture. In addition, he will optimize nursery and grow-out culture, he will keep in contact with farmers and other external entities and he will perform an ongoing research on the cultivation state of the art. This person must be an empiricist and be interested in trying new methods and approaches. The candidate should have a master's degree, ideally a PhD, in the area of Marine Biology, Biology or related fields. It is essential to have verifiable knowledge about the cultivation of bivalves in the hatchery (preferably industrially), minimum 2 years of research experience in this area, high level of English (Portuguese is desirable but not mandatory), communication and research skills, preparation of structured and quality reports. Production Technicians: They will be hired to become part of the hatchery production team. They will participate in all phases of the production process, from the broodstock conditioning and spawning to the larval and seed cultivation. They will also participate in the phytoplankton production and maintenance of water treatment facilities. Furthermore, the technicians will be actively involved in the research tasks of the company, pioneer in its field, but with a very strong research component for the optimization of production processes. Training in aquaculture and / or verifiable experience in aquaculture, preferably bivalves, is mandatory. A good level of English will be considered an added value.  All positions require to work shifts and weekends, and employees must have a driving license and good computer skills from a user's perspective.  If you are a proactive, dynamic person, able to work in a team, motivation to learn new methodologies and willingness to join an innovative company, send us your CV before October 25 to [email protected] indicating in the subject the position you are requesting (posted 10/8/19)

Fish and Wildlife Biologist (Washington, USA):  The Department of Fish and Wildlife is recruiting to fill one (1) full-time, permanent F&W Biologist 3 within the Fish Program. This position is located in Port Townsend, WA.  The primary duty of this position is the management of public intertidal shellfish resources in Puget Sound (Regions 4 and 6) to provide recreational harvest opportunities to the citizens of the State of Washington and to meet the agency's co-management obligations. This position is responsible for overseeing and directing a team of biologists and technicians to assess the status of intertidal clam and oyster stocks on public beaches; to establish annual bivalve harvest quotas; to monitor and account for the recreational harvest of intertidal bivalves; to participate in harvest management planning processes with the treaty tribes; and to develop and implement seasons designed to target the state's share of shellfish resources in order to maximize recreational opportunity and economic benefit. This position also develops data management systems and analyzes data to inform harvest management decisions.   For the complete job posting, including the list of required qualifications and how to apply, visit: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washington/jobs/2585260/fw-biologist-3 (posted 10/7/19)

Junior Specialist, UC Davis, Bodega Marine Laboratory (California, USA): Bodega Marine Laboratory is seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic individual to conduct research on pathogens and disease processes in white abalone. The successful candidate will join the Shellfish Health Laboratory group at UC Davis Bodega Marine Laboratory, in collaboration with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.  Research: Under the supervision of the laboratory’s faculty and academic research staff, the Junior Specialist will conduct directed research on and assist in the design of one or more of the following projects: Developing and optimizing quantitative PCR (qPCR) detection of the agent of abalone withering syndrome, Xenohaliotis californiensis,  Using qPCR to determine the Xenohaliotis californiensis infection status of captive and wild white abalone populations and presence of the pathogen in environmental samples; Identifying and describing other white abalone pathogens and symbionts;  Determining the heritability of genetic resistance of white abalone to withering syndrome; Characterizing changes to the abalone gut microbiome with Xenohaliotis californiensis infection and their relationship to disease expression.  The candidate will have a strong background in microbiology or a related field with demonstrated experience in aquatic animal research and knowledge of molecular diagnostic techniques and pathogen characterization. The candidate will have strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work both independently and as a member of a team. Candidate must be able to work effectively as a bridge between two research groups at BML, the Shellfish Health Laboratory and the White Abalone Culture Laboratory. The candidate is expected to contribute to publications and will be included as an author as appropriate. Professional Competence: The employee will participate in appropriate professional societies (National Shellfisheries Association, American Fisheries Society/Fish Health Section) including presentations at meetings, and review proposals, manuscripts and publications related to shellfish health.  To Apply: Qualified applicants should upload a Cover Letter, Curriculum Vitae or Resume, and contact information for 3 to 5 references via this URL: https://recruit.ucdavis.edu/apply/JPF03135 by OCTOBER 14TH 2019. (posted 9/26/19)

Coastal Aquaculture Specialist (North Carolina, USA): North Carolina Sea Grant is looking for a coastal aquaculture specialist to be stationed in Morehead City at NC State University’s Center for Marine Sciences and Technology.  Job description, requirements and other details, and how to apply are available in the online posting: https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/122466.  If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or [email protected]. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process, please call 919-515-3148.  Final candidates are subject to criminal and sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. If highest degree is from an institution outside of the U.S., final candidates are required to have their degree equivalency verified at www.wes.org or equivalent service. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit. (posted 9/24/19)

Postdoctoral Fellowship (California, USA) -  The NOAA West Coast Region Protected Resources Division (PRD) and NOAA Southwest Fisheries Science Center (SWFSC) announce an opportunity to fund a post-doctoral Research Associate who will examine factors that lead to the long-term survival of the endangered white abalone once captive-bred individuals are out-planted into the wild. Post-doctoral research may focus on the following: 1) development of genetic tools that can trace out-plant survivors to their genetic histories; 2) development of a data management framework for multiple restoration activities, especially out-planting, that enables program partners to share data entry platforms; and 3) development of laboratory studies that identify factors that may enhance captive propagation or out-planting success. In addition, the candidate will be expected to support white abalone out-planting operations which includes scientific diving off of small boat platforms. The Research Associate will be stationed in Southern California, ideally at the SWFSC in La Jolla, CA, and will be expected to travel frequently throughout the Southern California Bight for fieldwork and coordination meetings.  Qualifications: The candidate must be certified as a scientific diver through an AAUS affiliated institution and must have a minimum of at least 100 dives. A background in marine ecology, invertebrate biology, population ecology, or marine conservation is preferred. Experience with cold-water kelp forest diving and working on small boats is preferred.  How to apply: Visit the National Academies Research Associateship Programs page for this Research Opportunity to learn more (http://nrc58.nas.edu/RAPLab10/Opportunity/Opportunity.aspx?LabCode=26&ROPCD=260337&RONum=C0158).  Before applying, contact the Research Adviser to confirm eligibility.  Applications may be submitted online at www.nas.edu/rap. The next application deadline is November 1. (posted 9/20/19)

Hatchery Manager (Hawaii, USA): Pacific Hybreed seeks an experienced Hatchery Manager to manage the operation of this facility. Ideally, the applicant will be available in time to oversee the developmental phase, coordinating fabrication and packing of hatchery contents in Kingston, then setting up the hatchery facilities in Kona.  The Hatchery Manager position is a full-time position. The Hatchery Manager executes direction from the Pacific Hybreed leadership to establish an operating hatchery the National Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority (NELHA) campus near Kona. The facility will incorporate existing infrastructure at NELHA (electricity, freshwater, seawater, dry lab) to culminate into a working hatchery network (up to three buildings & an outdoor space) to foster algae & shellfish aquaculture.  The Hatchery Manager will be responsible for the following: (1) allocate hatchery resources to expedite the Company’s breeding and production goals; (2) maintain all records relating to hatchery operations, including development and updating of proprietary operating procedures and inventories and absolute integrity of the Chief Science Officer’s protocol for maintaining stocks; (3) directly supervise and coordinate the activities of the hatchery technician(s); (4) carry out funded research on husbandry of shellfish produced in focused breeding programs; (5) maintain the hatchery consistent with the company’s hygiene and biosecurity standards; (6) ensure adequate initial supply of algae through management of the company’s algae production facility; and (7) obtain all permits and otherwise meet regulatory requirements for operation. We expect the Manager continually to improve understanding of scientific and technical information relevant to the position through attendance of scientific meetings, participation in publications of relevant research, and active collaboration with peers in the field.  The Hatchery Manager will meet with team members to finalize a work-flow plan for the project, through the completion of testing of the hatchery in Kona. The Hatchery Manager is expected to structure and manage the work to best source materials, execute construction & installation; hire contractors, if necessary, as well as to schedule the transport of certain equipment to Kona, including specifically the following: Interpret blueprints & vision of planned work to create a schedule of work-flow; Manage/work-alongside-of involved parties to adhere to developed work plan; Carry out construction with, or without, the aid of contractors – TBD by Pacific Hybreed leadership & skillset; Work closely with finance team to build, structure & abide by budget; Source & procure equipment in both Washington and Hawaii consistent with plan and budget; Ensure quality control on all aspects of build-out; Oversee transportation arrangements for the safe and timely arrival of equipment in Kona; Communicate effectively with NELHA staff; Develop and execute protocol for testing of the facility in HI; Consult with personal professional network when necessary; Act as overall project manager through commencement of operations.  Minimum education: BS degree in biological or marine sciences.  Minimum experience: Five years of experience in an aquaculture research or production facility and/or University research setting with focus on marine invertebrate culture; combine education/experience as substitute for minimum experience.  Preferred education: MS or higher in a natural science, preferably in marine sciences, genetics, aquaculture, aquatic or marine sciences, or environmental biology.  Preferred experience: Experience in a shellfish aquaculture research or production facility with experience in maintaining breeding stocks of shellfish.  Skills, Laboratory: Larval bivalve rearing through early seed stage of bivalves; Shellfish nutrition for all life stages of bivalves; General laboratory techniques including microscopy and maintenance of instrumentation; Maintenance of lab records; Skills, Other: Personal computer; software (Word, Excel, database, statistical); Plumbing, electrical, and general construction related to aquatic culture systems; Supervises: Leads one or more employees performing similar, technical work
Salary and Benefits: Annual salary will be commensurate with education and experience, but within the range of annual salaries reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for a first-line supervisor of aquaculture workers. The position comes with paid vacation and sick leave and healthcare benefits. Additionally, the company will provide an allowance for lodging for work done in Washington State and airfare from and to Kona as necessary for the development phase.  Application:  Send informal inquiries or a complete application to Jon Kroman ([email protected]). A complete application comprises a résumé, the names and address of three references, and a cover letter describing your particular qualifications and interest in this position. The applicant must be a US citizen or have legal authorization to work in the US. Position will remain open until filled. (posted 9/13/19)

Quantitative Genetics and Genomics of Shellfish (Hawaii, USA):  Pacific Hybreed, Inc. has an opening for a PhD-level Geneticist, who would work closely with company founders Drs. Dennis Hedgecock and Joth Davis to develop Pacific Hybreed’s business model, products, and intellectual property, which incorporate advances in crossbreeding and polyploidy.  Pacific Hybreed, Inc. (www.pacifichybreed.com) aims to transform the shellfish aquaculture industry by producing and domesticating genetically diverse, high-yielding, robust and resilient stocks, which are incapable of interbreeding with natural populations.  We are focusing on commercial opportunities associated with high value broodstock and seed for Pacific oysters, Manila clams, Kumamoto oysters, rock scallops, and other species.  The Geneticist will apply modern breeding and quantitative methods, including genome-based tools and technologies, to crossbreeding programs for diploid and polyploid populations of several bivalve mollusc species. In addition, the Geneticist will apply or develop efficient genotyping methods and platforms for confirming pedigrees and researching the genetic bases of complex traits, such as yield (survivorship and growth), disease resistance, resilience to ocean acidification and extreme temperatures, sex determination, and reproductive maturation, using QTL mapping and other methods.  The successful applicant will hold a PhD in Quantitative Genetics, Population Genetics, Plant/Animal Breeding, Statistical Genetics, Bioinformatics, or a related field and have aptitude for and interest in developing new methods, analyzing data, and synthesizing and communicating results. The Geneticist must be highly organized, with good database and analytical skills, be able to work independently, and be flexible and adaptable to the challenges presented by shellfish breeding and aquaculture. The applicant's willingness and enthusiasm for collaborative work in both research and production arenas, in a private sector setting, is critical. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to present their work at scientific meetings, to publish results, and to mentor effectively.  Send informal inquiries or a complete application to Dennis Hedgecock ([email protected]). A complete application comprises a curriculum vitae, examples of recent publications, the names and address of three references, and a cover letter describing your particular qualifications and interest in this position. The applicant must be a US citizen or have legal authorization to work in the US. Position will remain open until filled.  (posted 9/13/19)

Research Biologist - Molluscan Shellfish Aquaculture (Florida, USA): The University of Florida is currently seeking a Research Biologist investigating on molluscan shellfish genetics and germplasm preservation. The successful applicant will work majorly on hard clams and eastern oysters for their breeding programs, germplasm preservation, and related genetic analysis and aquaculture techniques.  Qualifications: M.S. degree in shellfish aquaculture or related disciplines, or B.S. plus two-year working experience;Hands-on experience with oyster or clam spawning, hatchery, and growout; Capability of biological assays and molecular techniques in laboratory; Capability of drafting reports and manuscripts. Salary/Benefits: Full time payment (40 hr/week) at pay rate of $15-18/hr depending on experiences, plus GatorGradCare health insurance. Interested applicants should submit the following documents as a single pdf or word file via email to Dr. Huiping Yang, ([email protected]): Cover letter, Curriculum Vitae, Names and contact information of three professional references (posted 9/8/19)

MS Graduate Research Assistantship ‐ Molluscan Shellfish Aquaculture (Florida, USA): We are currently seeking applicants for a two-year M.S. research assistant investigating on molluscan shellfish genetics and germplasm preservation.This successful applicant will work majorly on hard clams and eastern oysters for their breeding programs, germplasm preservation, and related genetic analysis and aquaculture techniques.This position will be based at the Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Program in Gainesville, Florida, and will travel to Cedar Key, Florida to use the Senator George Kirkpatrick Marine Laboratory (1-hr driving from Gainesville) for hatchery, nursery and growout experiments. The terminal degree will be awarded through the Program in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences in the School of Forest Resources and Conservation (http://sfrc.ufl.edu).  Qualifications: B.S. degree in aquaculture or related disciplines, GRE scores of >150 Verbal and >150 Quantitative; Excellent verbal and written communication skills; Familiarity with oyster or clam spawning, hatchery, and growout, and capability of biological assays and molecular techniques.  Salary/Benefits: $21,333 annually, plus tuition waiver and GatorGradCare health insurance.Interested applicants should submit the following documents as a single pdf or word file via email to Dr. Huiping Yang, ([email protected]) as soon as possible: Cover letter, Curriculum Vitae, Unofficial academic transcripts, Unofficial GRE scores, and Names and contact information of three professional references.  Final candidates will be contacted and required to submit formal applications to the University of Florida graduate school by October 15, 2019. For further admission information please visit http://www.graduateschool.ufl.edu/admission/how‐to‐apply/ or contact Ms. Amy Abernethy [email protected], the academic coordinator for graduate programs. (posted 8/21/19)