Aquaculture Scientist - Shellfish Research & Development

We are seeking an enthusiastic and highly motivated Aquaculture Scientist – Shellfish Research & Development to join the Marine Science Section at UHI Shetland. This is an exciting opportunity to play a leading role in applied research that directly supports the sustainable growth and diversification of the shellfish aquaculture sector in Shetland and beyond.

In this role, you will lead and deliver innovative, industry-relevant research focused on shellfish aquaculture systems. Your work will help advance understanding of shellfish production, environmental interactions, and cultivation innovation, with a strong emphasis on delivering real-world impact for industry.

You will be responsible for:

• Designing, developing and delivering applied research projects in shellfish aquaculture
• Leading and contributing to competitive research funding applications
• Managing project delivery in line with funder requirements, budgets, and timelines
• Producing high-quality outputs including technical reports and peer-reviewed publications where appropriate
• Working closely with industry partners to ensure research is relevant, impactful, and transferable to practice
• Presenting research findings at meetings, workshops, and conferences
• Contributing to knowledge exchange activities and sector engagement
• Supporting wider research activity within the Marine Science Section

You will join a collaborative and supportive Marine Science team engaged in a diverse portfolio of aquaculture research projects. The role offers the opportunity to work at the interface of science and industry, engaging with local, national and international partners to help shape the future of sustainable shellfish production.

UHI Shetland provides a dynamic research environment with strong links to industry and a growing reputation in applied marine science and aquaculture innovation.

Applicants should hold a postgraduate qualification in Marine Science, Aquaculture or a related discipline and have a minimum of five years’ relevant professional experience. A strong track record of research delivery, experience in developing or contributing to funded research projects, and excellent analytical and communication skills are essential. A PhD and experience of working directly with industry partners would be advantageous.

This is a fixed-term appointment for up to 3 years, initially supported by short-term external funding. A key responsibility of the post holder will be to develop and submit competitive grant applications, with continuation of the post dependent on securing further external research funding.

Please note: previous applicants need not apply.

Right to work in the UK: Applicants must have the right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this post.

Further details are available in the Job Description and Person Specification. If you would like to discuss any aspect of this position, please email recruitment.shetland@uhi.ac.uk

UHI Shetland

UHI Shetland is part of the University of the Highlands and Islands, Scotland’s newest university. We offer well-equipped, modern facilities and deliver applied research, consultancy and knowledge exchange projects alongside high-quality accredited and bespoke training.

UHI Shetland mirrors national terms and conditions, offering a generous 45 days per year annual leave allowance and a standard 35-hour working week for full-time staff.

The Distant Islands Allowance is currently set at £2,997 and is payable in addition to salary (pro rata for part-time staff).

The preferred candidate will be required to join the PVG Scheme or undergo a PVG Scheme update prior to appointment and must provide suitable documentation confirming eligibility to work in the UK.

UHI Shetland is an equal opportunities employer operating a blind recruitment process and will not accept CVs as part of an application. Please download and complete the application form attached and return to recruitment.shetland@uhi.ac.uk.