Postdoctoral position in the project STERFEMSAL

The vacant position is at the Institute of Marine Research, within the research group Reproduction and Developmental Biology for 4 years. The main location will be in Bergen.

The project aims at exploring possible solutions for problems associated with early sexual maturation and escaped salmon in aquaculture – by developing new biotechnological methods for the production of sterile female salmon.

Main tasks

Production of large smolts on land is becoming increasingly common since it reduces the time spent in sea cages. This gives several advantages, such as reduced risk of sea lice infections and escapes. Yet, a prolonged production cycle on land comes with the risk of an increased incidence of precocious male maturation, which negatively effects fish welfare, somatic growth and filet quality. Using only female salmon in the farms could solve this challenge. The candidate we are seeking will be working with the establishment of a new approach for large scale production of female salmon using germ cell transplantation technology.

The project further aims at developing a vaccine to induce infertility in female salmon. Upon possible escapes, infertile female salmon will not be able to cause genetic introgression into wild salmon populations.  We have in previous projects identified proteins important for female fertility. In this context the candidate we are seeking will be performing functional studies using gene editing, and subsequently explore the possibility to immunize salmon against the identified proteins.

Qualifications

We are seeking a candidate with a PhD in molecular or cell biology, or related areas. Experience with gene editing, transcriptomics, cell transplantation, cell culture and/or immunization will be valued. Knowledge about reproduction in fish, especially salmonids, is advantageous. Good interpersonal skills will be valued. The research will be conducted in a team with personnel from IMR.

Further information

For more information about the position, please contact senior Scientist Lene Kleppe (lenekleppe@hi.no, phone number 98620305) or research group Leader Anna Wargelius anna.wargelius@hi.no (phone 90848168), or see our web page www.hi.no.

The Institute of Marine Research is a governmental institute that is committed to diversity and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. Please note that information about applicants may be made public. Applicants will be notified about this in advance.

Applications should be submitted electronically via the link on this page with CV including diplomas and certificates.

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