The world-renowned Institute of Aquaculture at the University of Stirling in Scotland, United Kingdom, is accepting applications for fully funded Ph.D. studentships and research assistantships in Sustainable Aquaculture for the 2026–2027 academic cycle.
Research Focus & Aquaculture Innovation Scope
As the UK’s leading center for aquaculture research and a global leader in aquatic food security, the Institute of Aquaculture focuses on cutting-edge solutions across key thematic areas:
- Aquatic Animal Health & Immunology: Developing novel fish vaccines, investigating host-pathogen interactions in Atlantic salmon and sea bass, and mitigating sea lice infestations.
- Sustainable Aquatic Nutrition & Alternative Feeds: Formulating circular feed ingredients using single-cell proteins, insect meals, and macroalgae to replace wild-caught fishmeal and fish oil.
- Advanced Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS): Optimizing water biofiltration, microbial biofloc dynamics, fish welfare sensors, and precision aquaculture engineering.
- Aquaculture Genetics & Selective Breeding: Genomic selection, disease resistance trait mapping, and epigenetic adaptation in farmed aquatic species.
Studentship Package & Benefits
- Host Department: Institute of Aquaculture, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Scotland, UK.
- Duration: 3.5 to 4 Years full-time doctoral study.
- Financial Package: UKRI-standard tax-free annual living stipend (approx. £19,237+ per year), full tuition fee coverage, and dedicated research operational budget.
- Flexible Intake: Opportunities to enroll on the 1st day of academic intake months.
Candidate Requirements
- First Class or Upper Second Class (2:1) Honours degree or Master’s degree in Aquaculture, Fisheries Science, Marine Biology, Veterinary Science, or Aquatic Biotechnology.
- Practical laboratory or field experience in aquaculture systems, fish welfare, or molecular biology.
- English language proficiency for international students.
How to Apply
Applicants must identify a prospective supervisor at the Institute of Aquaculture and submit an application through the University of Stirling postgraduate admissions portal, including a research statement, detailed CV, academic transcripts, and two academic references.