PhD Position - Fishboost: Wageningen University

FunctionIn the EU funded project Fishboost, the Animal Breeding and Genomics Centre of Wageningen University has a vacancy for a PhD student for four years.The aim of FISHBOOST is to improve the efficiency and profitability of European aquaculture by advancing selective breeding to the next level for each of the six main finfish species (Atlantic salmon, common carp, European seabass, gilthead seabream, rainbow trout and turbot) through collaborative research with industry. Within this EU-funded project, the PhD candidate will contribute to the work package on economic evaluation of fish breeding in Europe. This work package aims for the six target species:

• to perform an economic review of existing breeding programs;
• to perform an economic assessment of traits;
• to perform a cost‐benefit analysis of existing breeding programs;
• to compare the impact of alternative selection indices.

Function RequirementsWe are looking for a versatile team player with the following qualities:

• A motivated researcher with MSc degree
• Relevant experiences in animal breeding, economics, modelling or a related field
• Basic understanding of fish breeding and aquaculture is an asset
• Good understanding of economic analysis
• Affinity with modelling and statistical data analysis
• A keen interest in fundamental and applied research
• Has creative, innovative ideas and can initiate independently research
• Accurate in performing research
• Ability to execute the tasks as defined in the project proposal
• Excellent spoken and written communicative skills in English

Working conditionsWe offer a full-time employment (38 hours a wee) as PhD research with the animal Breeding and Genetics Group for 18 months with a possible extension of 30 months after a positive evaluation. The gross salary will increase from € 2799,- in the first year to € 3831,- per month in the fourth year (baed on fulltime employment).ContactinformationAdditional information can be obtained from dr. Hans Komen, e-mail: hans.komen@wur.nlPhone +31-317-482335How to applyYou can apply till 25 march 2014.  Please don't email directly to the person mentioned above, but use the website to apply and upload your CV and short motivation letter.OrganizationDepartment of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding and Genomics CentreThe Animal Breeding and Genetics Centre (ABGC) provides education and generates knowledge on the role and sustainable use of genetic variation in animals. ABGC contributes to our quality of life by generating knowledge to support the adequate supply of safe and healthy food of animal origin, and to enhance the health, welfare and productivity of animals. The group combines expertise in quantitative and molecular genetics related to the biological functioning of animals at population level. ABGC studies genetic variation in farm and companion animals, and examines opportunities to use naturally occurring genetic variation in selection schemes.Fishboost14 well-recognised RTD participants in Europe on aquaculture breeding will collaborate in this five year comprehensive research project with 7 SMEs, 4 large industries and 1 NGO throughout Europe. A mixture of low and high-tech technological advances will be developed to move the breeding programmes of the six main fin fish species to the next level. This step-change advance will facilitate balanced and sustainable breeding programmes applying a wide set of traits, breeding tools and technologies. For more information please visit Fishboost.