Carmel McDougall

New fully funded PhD opportunity through the EastBio DTP programme at the University of St Andrews, within a marine biology research group led by Carmel McDougall and co-supervised by Tim Bean. The project focuses on improving hatchery production of the native oyster Ostrea edulis . The first phase will involve experimental work in the Scottish Ocean Institute’s aquarium facility to investigate methods for manipulating oyster sex, with the longer-term aim of optimising broodstock sex ratios and maximising production. The project is designed to be flexible and can be shaped by the successful candidate’s interests. Possible directions include improving hatchery workflows for larval production, studying how parentage and genetics affect oyster performance, or exploring the evolution of larval brooding in oysters. This is a strong fit for candidates interested in marine biology, aquaculture, genetics, larval development, and practical hatchery research. The student will also work closely with industry partner Native Aqua, providing exposure to applied research with real-world relevance. Funding is explicitly described as fully funded. The post invites interested applicants to read the project details at the application link and contact the announcer for more information. The application deadline is 16 November.