Vancouver Island University (VIU) International Centre for Sturgeon
Studies (ICSS)
Post-Doctoral Fellowship Opportunity
(Subject to funding)
Opportunity
The VIU International Centre for Sturgeon Studies (ICSS) in
collaboration with the VIU Horticulture Department and an industrial
partner have proposed a project for funding titled "Development of
closed containment and aquaponics technologies for White sturgeon
aquaculture". We are seeking a post-doctoral fellow (PDF) for a
two-year period to lead this project. The majority of the funding has
been secured, with the remainder being contingent on recruiting a
qualified PDF candidate.
Background
The goal of the newly constructed International Centre for Sturgeon
Studies at Vancouver Island University is to become a knowledge and
innovation network hub supporting ongoing White sturgeon conservation
and restoration efforts and the development of a sustainable sturgeon
aquaculture industry in BC (www.viu.ca/sturgeon). VIU maintains the
only White sturgeon broodstock in Canada and has several year-classes
under culture. The ICSS, opened in 2011, is a key component of the
40,000 sq. ft. of aquatic research infrastructure developed at VIU.
The ICSS has five wet labs with recirculation systems and temperature
control, a number of smaller labs, a large well equipped dry-lab,
offices and a conference room.
Sturgeon culture for meat is a growing global industry producing over
20,000 tonnes annually and there is increasing interest in this
species in British Columbia. Similarly, there is growing interest in
aquaponics to increase profitability and to improve the ecological
footprint of aquaculture operations. VIU has a long history in
Fisheries and Aquaculture training and research as well as
horticulture programs. This research will provide knowledge that can
be immediately applied by our industrial partner and provide relevant
research and experiential learning opportunities for VIU
undergraduate students. The project will:
Evaluate production parameters of white sturgeon in PRAS tank
environments (stocking densities, feeding rate, growth rate and temperature)
Evaluate plant species, growth and production, nutrient profiles
and operational economics in a pilot aquaponics module
The PDF will outline the specific research plan, lead and execute the
project supported by appropriate faculty and technicians.
Details
The position will begin January 31, 2013 or as soon as possible
thereafter depending on the availability of a suitable candidate.
Project funding is for two years, however, the position may be
continued depending on other funding or if other research projects
become available. The project budget includes conference travel. The
ideal candidate would reflect the following profile:
Recently completed PhD (within 5 years) in a field of biology or
other relevant discipline
A highly motivated individual that is comfortable working independently
A passion for peer review quality research with applied outcomes
A proven team leader, collaborator and team player
Project management experience in terms of lab and fish production
set-up and operation, logistics, budget management, communications etc.
Previous experience working with sturgeon in laboratory,
conservation or aquaculture settings
Preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents
International Centre for Sturgeon Studies, 900 Fifth Street, Nanaimo,
British Columbia, Canada V9R 5S5
The ICSS is a "soft-funded" research organization that operates on
revenues from successful research proposals and grants. This will be
the first scientific position at the ICSS and a huge opportunity for
the right candidate to launch their career and help to shape the
future research direction and organizational development of the ICSS.
VIU and the City of Nanaimo are hosting the 7th International
Symposium on Sturgeon from July 21- 25, 2013 (web-site: iss7.viu.ca).
The Director of the ICSS is the Chair of ISS7, supported by an
international scientific advisory committee. With over 600
international delegates expected, the ICSS will play a prominent role
hosting workshops and tours. This will be an incredibly valuable
networking opportunity for the PDF and help the ICSS to achieve its
goal of becoming a network hub for knowledge and innovation.
To Apply:
Please send a CV, cover letter and names and contact information for
three references to Don Tillapaugh, Director ICSS.
[email protected]. Questions can be directed to Don Tillapaugh by
e-mail or phone. (250 740 6113)
Known as a centre of excellence for teaching, applied research and
learning, Vancouver Island University is a dynamic, internationally
known university that supports a population of over 18,000 full and
part-time learners, including 1,100 international students, and over
1,000 aboriginal students. (www.viu.ca)
