Students hoping to pursue a career in one of the world’s fastest-growing food production sectors have been given the opportunity to work with leading companies in the field. By 2030, it is anticipated that aquaculture will be responsible for 60% of the fish we eat, and the University of Plymouth’s MSc Sustainable Aquaculture program aims to train the next generation of specialists.

Biomin GmbH, Lallemand SAS and Leiber GmbH funded five scholarships at the university’s new program launched in the current academic year. This has given students access to expertise from leaders in industry and commerce from a vital subsector pioneering improvements in the sustainability and health benefits of aquafeeds, advancing both their technical and scientific knowledge. In addition to the provision of scholarships, the industry partners provide access to resources and support for student research projects and contribute to the curriculum by offering guest lectures and placements. This year’s recipients were Paul Mosnier, JackSears-Stewart, Max Jouault, Tim Herring and James Mckay.

The scholarship program is set to continue into the 2020/21 academic year, offering more students the chance to get hands-on experience in the industry at the same time as progressing their own academic studies and research.