Chronobiological changes in behaviour, development and immunity of salmon lice larvae (ChronoLice)
Deadline for applications: 3rd February 2025, 10:00 GMT
Project Description:
The exciting PhD research project will help us understand the biology of sea lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis), a pervasive and damaging fish parasite that causes substantial animal welfare, environmental and economic damage by impacting aquaculture of salmon. These copepod “lice” feed on fish mucus, skin and blood, causing lesions that allow secondary infections, reducing fish health and welfare. Control of lice has been focussed on the adult stages when attached to fish, but little is known about the biology of the free-swimming stages, which must locate and attached to a host to complete their life cycle. The project will address this fundamental knowledge gap by examining the parasite’s chronobiology, host seeking behaviour and physiological responses before and during attachment, and whether these can be disrupted or harnessed for reducing infestation.
For more information on the project, see the attached document. You can apply via the FoodBioSystems DTP Page