PhD Opportunity in Applied Marine Biology

A PhD opportunity is available at the Ocean Sciences Centre of Memorial University to study the ecology and biology (fisheries/aquaculture related) of sea cucumbers. With a decline in traditional harvests, several exploratory fisheries are being conducted to determine if certain underutilized species would be commercially sustainable. At the forefront of emerging fisheries in Atlantic Canada is the orange-footed sea cucumber (Cucumaria frondosa). With the fishery poised to enter the commercial phase in the near future, developing a sustainable management strategy becomes a priority. The proposed study aims to elucidate key biological aspects of C. frondosa which are not only significant from an ecological viewpoint but will also provide managers with the tools to develop appropriate management strategies by filling important gaps in the existing knowledge. Areas of study will include the definition of growth parameters through field and laboratory experiments, the development of tools for aging wild specimens and other aspects of the general biology and ecology of sea cucumbers.


This position includes a full stipend of $18,000 per year and the successful candidate will be expected to begin no later than May 2010. Interested students should send an outline of their research interests and a CV by email at the address below. The Memorial University website (www.mun.ca) can be consulted for questions pertaining to the programs offered, tuition fees, scholarships/fellowships and application procedures.


For more information or to apply, contact Dr. Annie Mercier, Ocean Sciences Centre, Memorial University, St. John's, NL, Canada, A1C 5S7. Email: amercier@mun.ca, Website: www.mun.ca/osc/amercier/bio.php.