PhD FELLOWSHIP (FPI CONTRACT)
Join the CEMiO-D Team – New PhD Position in Molecular Biology and Animal Welfare in Octopus
The Aquatic Biotechnology Research Group (ACUABIOTEC, IIM-CSIC, Vigo, Spain) is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate with an interest in molecular biology, physiology, and animal welfare in aquaculture to join the CEMiO-D project (C-ex-miRNAs as novel welfare biomarkers in Octopus: Characterization and development of simple and rapid assays for early diagnosis and monitoring).
This project will apply an innovative omics-based approach, focusing on circulating exosomal microRNAs (C-ex-miRNAs), to identify reliable welfare biomarkers in the common octopus (Octopus vulgaris). Additionally, the project will develop rapid Lateral Flow Assay (LFA) tests to enable early, simple, and non-invasive monitoring of octopus health and welfare.
This is a unique opportunity to participate in a pioneering project that integrates molecular biology, biotechnology, and sustainable aquaculture, with the aim of improving animal welfare and driving innovation in octopus production across Europe.
This PhD fellowship (FPI contract) is linked to the 2024 national call for knowledge generation and predoctoral researcher training projects (reference PID2024-161686OB-100).
What we offer
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A 4-year fully funded FPI PhD contract (expected start: December 2025)
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Access to state-of-the-art omics technologies and an international research environment
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Interdisciplinary training at the intersection of molecular biology, physiology, animal welfare, and blue biotechnology
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The opportunity to contribute to sustainable and innovative aquaculture with real-world impact
Candidate profile
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BSc and MSc in Biology, Biotechnology, Marine Sciences, Veterinary Medicine, Bioinformatics, or related fields.
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Basic knowledge of molecular biology and omics techniques (e.g. transcriptomics)
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Experience in programming (R or Python) will be an advantage
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A strong interest in applied research on animal health and welfare in aquaculture
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A collaborative mindset and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research
How to apply
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Application deadline: September 19th, 2025
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Submit your CV and motivation letter to: rotllant@iim.csic.es
Contact
Dr. Pep Rotllant
ACUABIOTEC Lab – Department of Biotechnology and Aquaculture
Institute of Marine Research (IIM-CSIC)
C/ Eduardo Cabello 6, 36208 Vigo, Spain
Phone: +34 986231930 ext. 860288 | Fax: +34 986292762
http://FishBioTech.csic.es | http://acuabiotec.csic.es
Email: rotllant@iim.csic.es
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