If you're also passionate about captive marine life, even better! This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience, contribute to innovative research, and make a real impact on sustainable aquatic pet nutrition. Apply now and be part of the change!
Tasks
- Market Research: Investigate the current ornamental fish food industry and assess the market potential for alternative protein sources.
- Industry & Consumer Trends: Analyze how receptive pet owners, breeders, and businesses are to sustainable and alternative fish feed solutions.
- Nutritional Research: Explore how alternative proteins compare to traditional protein sources in terms of digestibility, fish health, growth, and coloration.
- Application in Captive Marine Animals: Investigate whether alternative proteins could be used to feed fish and other aquatic species in aquariums and marine institutions, such as the Oceanário de Lisboa.
- Scientific Literature Review: Summarize existing studies on fish nutrition, sustainable feed ingredients, and their impact on fish well-being.
- Experimental Support (if applicable, particularly for Master’s students conducting a thesis):
- Assist in designing small-scale trials to evaluate the effects of alternative proteins on ornamental fish health, including growth rate, coloration, and overall well-being.
- Collect and analyze data related to feeding trials, ensuring proper monitoring of fish response to the new diet.
- Collaborate with research teams, aquarium specialists, or university labs to conduct controlled feeding experiments.
- Collaboration & Networking: Engage with industry professionals, aquarium specialists, and marine biologists to gather insights into the feasibility of introducing alternative proteins.
- Data Compilation & Presentation: Organize research findings into reports, presentations, or whitepapers for internal analysis or potential industry outreach.
- Currently pursuing a degree in Biology, Animal Sciences, Oceanography, Marine Sciences, Marine Biology, Aquatic Resources, or a related field. (WeOnly with active student status
- Interest in fish nutrition, aquaculture, sustainable feed solutions, and alternative proteins.
- Strong analytical skills to assess both scientific and market data.
- Ability to research and synthesize findings from literature, market studies, and expert interviews.
- Good communication skills to summarize and present research insights.
- Self-motivated and proactive approach to exploring new ideas and solutions.
- Bonus: Master’s students interested in experimental research on fish health, coloration, and growth when fed alternative proteins.
- Bonus: Interest or experience in captive animal nutrition (e.g., species kept in aquariums or marine research centers).
At MicroHarvest, we value diversity and as such we do not discriminate based on race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual’s status in any group or class protected by applicable laws. MicroHarvest respectfully encourages people from all backgrounds and under-represented groups to apply for this position.