Aquaculture Specialist

Southwest Virginia Aquaculture Research and Extension Center

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

The Department of Food Science and Technology at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is seeking to fill the position of Aquaculture Specialist of the Southwest Virginia Aquaculture Research and Extension Center (SWVAqREC). The SWVAqREC is located 100 miles West of Blacksburg in the historic Town of Saltville and near the towns of Abingdon and Marion. The Center was established in 2000 and is initiating programs in recirculating aquaculture and the production of special horticultural crops, such as cut flowers, bedding plants, and organic fruits and vegetables. The Center is run by a Superintendent.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Aquaculture Specialist will be responsible for all aspects of Center operations pertaining to conducting research and maintaining the aquaculture facilities as well as being actively involved in the Commercial Fish and Shellfish Technologies (CFAST) program. Specific responsibilities include: care and maintenance of research fish and aquaculture systems; managing different fish stages, including larval which requires live and artificial feed; performing reproductive manipulation studies in the new hatchery; conducting research on raising yellow perch and on subsequent varieties of fish for market sales; conducting related research on parameters influencing fish profitability; maintaining databases of research results, water quality parameters, utility usage, and related cost analysis data. The Aquaculture Specialist will also be responsible for assisting in plant production activities in the two greenhouses located at the Center. Responsibilities include developing planting schedules, application of pesticides, and developing marketing programs in cooperation with faculty in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

QUALIFICATIONS

The Aquaculture Specialist must have at least a Masters degree in aquaculture or a closely related field. Experience with the design and operation of recirculating aquaculture systems is required with preference given for specific experience utilizing the type of systems at the Saltville facility. Experience with raising yellow perch is also required, including knowledge of all stages of fish life from reproduction to larval rearing to growing fish to market size. The successful candidate will also have experience raising a variety of cold, cool and warm water aquaculture species as the research at Saltville will not be limited to yellow perch. Preference will be given to candidates who have experience with fish disease diagnostics and treatment. The successful candidate must have a strong commitment to applied research, extension programming, and the long‑term sustainability of agriculture. The candidate must be physically able and willing to perform manual labor and must have the skills necessary to grow fish and operate an aquaculture facility. The Aquaculture Specialist must have the demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with individuals at all levels within the university, industry, and public sectors. The ability to use personal computers to perform a variety of tasks is required.

SALARY

Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications. This is a 12-month restricted position with funding available until September 15, 2005, with continuation contingent upon availability of funds.

APPLICATIONS

Review of applications will begin October 1, 2004, and will continue until a suitable candidate is identified. Interested persons should send a letter of intent, a complete resume’, and arrange for three letters of reference to arrive by the due date. Send application materials or requests for information to: Dr. George J. Flick, University Distinguished Professor, Department of Food Science and Technology, Duck Pond Drive, Virginia Tech (0418), Blacksburg, VA 24061; telephone (540) 231‑6965; e‑mail flickg@vt.edu