Shellfish Positions Available

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Post doc position/Senior RA, multiple positions (Hong Kong): The Hong Kong Oyster Hatchery and Innovation Research Unit (HKO_HIRU) at HKU is seeking researchers to investigate stress-induced omics and their transgenerational expression, as well as the genomic selection of multiple stress-tolerant strains in Hong Kong oysters. As part of this initiative, they are recruiting 3 post docs and/or Senior RA.  These positions are available immediately. The primary goal of these positions is to 1) develop tools for genome-based breeding of the Hong Kong oyster, a major aquaculture species in China – which is accounting almost ¼ of global production. Specifically, they will focus on the application of SNP genotyping platform in genomic selection for high salinity tolerance and disease resilient strains, 2) identify a scientifically innovative and practically feasible ways to improve taste and meat quality of oysters (food and sensory chemistry) via fattening processes during harvesting winter period, and 3) Identify microbiological and environmental factors involved in oyster mass mortality at the time of harvest in winter period using metagenomics and other omics and environmental techniques. These positions, in close collaboration with PhD students and others in the lab, may involve in hatchery production and maintenance of experimental oysters, conducting challenge experiments, analysis of genotype, microbiome, environmental and phenotype data, communication with growers and the oyster community around south China, and importantly, writing manuscripts for publication. Interdisciplinary International collaboration is KEY strength of their group. Qualifications:  PhD degree in a related field. Applicants should have relevant research experience and a good publication record. Experience in genomic selection, food chemistry, or environmental microbiome is highly preferred. The monthly salary ranges from HK$25,000 to 35,000 (approximately US$3 to 4K per month), commensurate with publication record and potential to become an academic professor or scientist in the near future. Income tax in Hong Kong is negligible for this salary range. The exact salary and contract duration 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 by May 30, 2026.  (posted 3/24/26)

Aquaculture Facility Manager (Texas, USA): The Aquaculture Facilities Manager is responsible for facilities management of a research aquaculture facility focusing on genetics and breeding of eastern oysters and other species of commercial aquaculture interest in Texas and the wider United States.  The successful candidate will effectively manage facility personnel while fostering an inclusive and collaborative team environment. The position requires strong attention to detail, self-motivation, resourcefulness, and excellent problem-solving skills.  Responsibilities: Management, including maintenance and upkeep, of all systems involved in facility operations; Planning and oversight of day-to-day facility operation activities in conjunction with ongoing research projects and husbandry activities; Creating, disseminating, and refining schedules and plans related to facility projects with input from supervisor and research hatchery team; Working alongside research team to design, construct, improve, and maintain culture systems and develop innovative culture techniques; Coordinating the ordering of supplies and equipment with research team and coordinating facility repairs and upgrades with contractors; Supervision of facilities personnel; Maintaining high standards of safety, biosecurity, and cleanliness throughout the facility; Ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local permitting and workplace regulations; Keeping accurate and well-organized records of maintenance work, water quality, animal systems, and other facility activities; Participating in and supporting research or husbandry activities as needed; Consulting with potential collaborators to determine feasibility of accommodating facility use; Communicating and addressing any damages or changes to facility systems that could potentially impact ongoing projects and activities; Perform other duties as assigned. Required Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in applicable field or equivalent combination of education and experience; Five years of related experience; A working knowledge of aquaculture facility equipment operation and maintenance (including plumbing, pumps, filtration systems, and heaters/chillers); Knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet applications; Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others; Strong verbal and written communication skills; Strong organizational skills, including record keeping, scheduling, and planning; Ability to promptly respond to on-site emergency calls. Preferred Qualifications: At least one year of supervisory experience; Experience with the culture of bivalve species and phytoplankton; Experience in research or commercial-scale aquaculture operations and demonstrated competence with a variety of culture systems.Salary: Compensation for this position is commensurate based on the selected candidate’s qualifications. Apply here: https://tamus.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/System-wide_External/job/Corpus-Christi-TX/Aquaculture-Facility-Manager_R-091360  (posted 3/5/26)

Faculty Research Assistant UMCES Horn Point Oyster Hatchery (Maryland, USA):  The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science unleashes the power of science to transform the way society understands and manages the environment. By conducting cutting-edge research into today’s most pressing environmental problems, we are developing new ideas to help guide our state, nation, and world toward a more environmentally sustainable future through five research centers—the Appalachian Laboratory in Frostburg, the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory in Solomons, the Horn Point Laboratory in Cambridge, the Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology in Baltimore, and the Maryland Sea Grant College in College Park. As one of the largest oyster hatcheries on the East Coast, the UMCES Horn Point Oyster Hatchery produces high-quality eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) larvae, spat-on-shell, and seed to support restoration, aquaculture, research, and education initiatives. Over the past three decades, oysters spawned at the Horn Point Laboratory have led to the deployment of more than 18 billion spat into the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. These efforts have helped rebuild productive oyster bars, strengthen the regional fishery, and enhance the overall health and resilience of the Bay’s ecosystem.  This position will involve assistance with all aspects of oyster hatchery duties for restoration and fishery activities. Duties include but are not limited to oyster broodstock conditioning, maintenance, spawning, larval rearing, spat production and settlement assessment, seed production, mass algae production, and long-line maintenance.  Applicants should have the ability to multitask, as the hatchery is a fast-paced environment. Self- motivation, organization, and willingness to work productively are a must. Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Carry out daily maintenance of shellfish larval cultures, algal stocks, and spat tanks, Perform routine animal husbandry including spawning, larval counts, tank cleaning, spat counts, setting tank management, seed operations, long-line management and larval and algal culture maintenance, Assist with downweller, and upweller operations in the production of seed for industry needs; perform daily cleans of downweller and upweller silos, Set and grade seed, Maintain distinct genetic lines, Split, size, and redeploy oyster seed to prevent overcrowding and encourage growth, Interact with customers in a professional manner, Perform general maintenance and upkeep and assist with various projects as needed, Complete paperwork logs and maintain records as required, and Maintain hatchery safety at all times; comply with company health and safety guidelines. Minimum Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in biology, marine biology, aquaculture or other life sciences from an accredited University is required. One to two seasons of previous work or research focused on bivalves and animal husbandry. Flexibility to work holidays and weekends during the production season is required. Preferred Qualifications: Experience with oyster larval culture, settlement assessment, seed cultures, automated algal feeding systems, and database entry is strongly preferred. Attentive to details to ensure distinct genetic lines to maintain ploidy requirements. Physical Demands: Applicants should be able to lift 50 pounds and be able to work in a hot, humid, wet environment. Applicants must be able to climb in and out of tanks and work at a fast pace. Flexibility to work holidays and weekends during the production season is required. Required Application Materials: (1) cover letter describing relevant experience, interests and goals, (2) a current CV or resume, and (3) contact information for three references. SUBMIT ALL MATERIALS TO THE WORKDAY PLATFORM (posted 2/27/26)

Oyster Farm Operations Lead (Maine, USA): Deer Isle Oyster Company is seeking a motivated, reliable, highly organized and energetic Oyster Farm Operations Lead to oversee day-to-day farming operations. This management role entails tracking and maintaining seed stock, sorting, culling, and grading oysters, as well as managing biofouling and landing market-sized product. The Operations Lead will work with a farm crew of 2-3 individuals and is expected to exhibit excellent communication, safety awareness, strong prioritization skills, and compassionate leadership. Candidates who can adapt and problem-solve effectively in a fast-paced environment are valued. The position entails 5-day, 40-hour workweeks from March/April through December, with potential for year-round employment based on performance.  Key Responsibilities:   Safely run a variety of outboard workboats; Lead a 2-3 person farm crew with a focus on safety, productivity & team harmony; Communicate effectively with the Events Coordinator, Chief Operations Officer and Owner about farm harvest, operations and needs; Operate processing equipment on the oyster float, including solar powered tumbler and pumps; Plan daily schedules around farm accessibility and seasonal needs; Raise and lower farm infrastructure in spring and fall; Deploy and sort oyster seed; Maintain appropriate stocking densities of oyster inventory on the farm; Adhere to state Vibrio regulations for safe oyster handling; Harvest market-ready oysters to meet company quality specifications; Prevent and manage biofouling on gear, equipment, and oysters; Conduct record-keeping for quality control, inventory, and farm maintenance; Utilize Google Suite and other applications for reporting, logging, and maintenance records; Repair, maintain, and keep inventory of gear as necessary; Support data collection for plastic-free aquaculture initiatives as required; Collaborate with the owner and COO to improve farm efficiency and evaluate new technologies; Support polyculture diversification.  Qualifications:  Minimum 2 years of experience working with and handling small boats (aquaculture farming experience preferred), Valid driver's license; Strong, clear communication skills; Ability to work independently and as part of a team; Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions from March to December; Physical capacity to work on your feet on the water, and lift/push/pull up to 50+ lbs; Willingness to live or relocate within a reasonable commuting distance to the farm; Experience steering and safely maneuvering 20-25’ boats with outboards (helm and tiller steering); Competency in rowing; Familiarity with operating and maintaining winches, haulers, and pumps.  Preferred Skills and Traits:  Highly organized and adaptable to new challenges; Troubleshooting skills and the ability to address issues quickly; Enthusiastic about outdoor work environments, sustainability, aquaculture, and small business; Capable of working both independently and collaboratively.  How to Apply:  Please send a cover letter, resume, and three references to: [email protected] (posted 1/24/26)

Oyster Farmhand (Maine, USA): Deer Isle Oyster Company is seeking a hardworking, reliable, and enthusiastic farmhand to join our team for the upcoming season. This position involves a variety of hands-on tasks across our oyster and seaweed farm, and you'll have the opportunity to work outdoors, learn about aquaculture practices, and contribute to a growing, innovative business. Preferred April/May start with flexible end date, October-December.  Key responsibilities include Oyster Farming: Harvest, sort, tumble, clean, bag, and wash/prepare oysters for market; assist with oyster delivery, deploy & flip gear as needed; Urchin & Kelp Farming: Harvest, grade process sugar kelp, tend/feed sea urchins; and Maintenance: Repair/build farm gear, maintain boats and equipment, and assist with the upkeep of the farm's shop & facilities.  Requirements:  Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation (personal vehicle required); Comfortable working on the water and in all weather conditions; Ability to swim and do tedious, highly physical tasks in an exposed, outdoor setting; Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs over slippery and uneven surfaces; Willing to work long days/flexible hours & some weekends; Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn; Interest in aquaculture & sustainability practices; Ability to adapt to changing schedules and tasks in a fast-paced environment.  Compensation & Benefits:  Hourly wage with mid-season raise potential; Opportunity to learn about aquaculture, emerging species and sustainable farming practices; and Culled oysters available for personal consumption. Please send a brief cover letter, resume, and three references to: [email protected] (posted 1/24/26) 

Research Associate I (Marine Aquaculture) (Florida, USA): The Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science at the University of Miami is seeking a Research Associate I position to conduct activities for ongoing marine aquaculture research projects.  Duties include:Feeding organisms (fish and bivalves), cleaning, and general maintenance; Microalgae culture and maintenance; Bivalve (Oyster) culture and maintenance; Macroalgae cultivation and maintenance; Data recording and reporting; Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) operation and maintenance; Larval rearing trials: set up, execution, data recording; Assisting in preparation of progress reports to the funding sources; Assist with capture, transport, acclimation, and management of UMEH broodstock organisms; Caring for various life stages of multiple marine species (fish, bivalves, micro- and macroalgae) housed at the UM – Rosenstiel School and in other projects UM
is involved with both in the US and abroad.Bachelor of Science (BS) Degree is required. Minimum of two (2) years experience in marine
aquaculture technician work, including marine animal husbandry, live feeds production, and harvesting methods; preferably with marine finfish species such as flounder, cobia, Seriola spp., snapper spp., and/or grouper spp. Minimum of two (2) years experience in bivalve culture, including spawning broodstock, microalgae culture, larval rearing, and growout. Additional experience in macroalgae culture experience preferred. Must have prior experience in marine aquaculture life support systems design, construction, operation, and maintenance. Provide a minimum of 3 professional references as part of application.  For more information, contact: John Stieglitz, [email protected].  To apply: https://umiami.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UMCareerStaff/job/Miami-FL/Research-Associate-1_R100092792 (posted 1/24/2026)