CCMAR​/IAEBEP​/Assistant Researcher; M​/F | Fish Ethology and Welfare | Position

Assistant Researcher – Fish Ethology and Welfare

The Centro de Ciências do Mar do Algarve (CCMAR) is opening a recruitment and selection process for one position for an Assistant Researcher in Fish Ethology and Welfare. This position is open to citizens of any nationality, including stateless individuals, under a permanent employment contract to recruit and select the best candidate for activities within the Foundation for Science and Technology Tenure Program (FCT-Tenure), according to the following conditions:

The selected candidate will lead research at CCMAR focused on advancing knowledge in fish ethology and welfare. EU advisory bodies recognise this field as critical for improving finfish production, and the European Commission and Parliament acknowledge it as a pillar for the EU aquaculture sector. CCMAR aims to leverage its position to spearhead innovative research addressing both fundamental and applied aspects of fish behaviour and welfare.

The candidate will coordinate a research group to expand understanding of fish behaviour using the four questions of ethology (function, causation, development, and evolution) as a framework and apply this state-of-the-art knowledge to enhance the welfare of farmed and wild-caught aquatic animals.

This area of research is increasingly relevant in science, policy, and public discourse. Advances in neuroscience have demonstrated the interconnection between behavioural traits and physiological mechanisms, with fish serving as unique models for vertebrate behavioural regulation. This research has wide-ranging implications, particularly for food production systems, as fish welfare directly impacts flesh quality, contributing to food security and the competitiveness of fish production and harvesting companies.

Key responsibilities include:

• Conduct research to deepen knowledge of fish behaviour and its physiological underpinnings, integrating fundamental and applied perspectives.
• Develop and implement methodologies to assess and improve fish welfare in aquaculture and wild fisheries.
• Coordinate studies linking fish behavioural traits to physiological mechanisms, emphasising food quality and security implications.
• Supervise and mentor a research group, including MSc and PhD students, fostering an environment of innovation and scientific excellence.
• Secure competitive funding to support research activities and projects.
• Engage with policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the general public to raise awareness about the importance of fish ethology and welfare.
• Establish and strengthen collaborations with national and international research institutions, hosting visiting researchers and students.
• Disseminate findings through high-impact publications, presentations at international conferences, and participation in outreach activities.
• Partner with aquaculture and fisheries industries to translate research findings into practical applications that enhance fish welfare and production efficiency.

The selected candidate will contribute to CCMAR's mission by addressing societal challenges, advancing scientific understanding, and supporting the sustainable development of aquaculture and fisheries sectors.

Note:

This is the initial work plan. However, the selected candidate may be assigned additional tasks and responsibilities in alignment with the CCMAR's evolving strategy, allowing for adaptation to new priorities and challenges.

Applicable law includes:

The contract is expected to start in January 2025. Activities will occur at CCMAR (University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal) and other locations necessary for the proposed tasks. Working hours are 35 hours per week. The gross base monthly salary is €3,427.59…