PhD scholarship on carbon dioxide in aquaculture – DTU Aqua

About the role

This PhD scholarship, funded by the Norwegian Research Council, aims to address the challenge of carbon dioxide accumulation in recirculating aquaculture systems. Elevated CO₂ levels can impair fish health, welfare, and growth through physiological and biochemical disturbances. The project will strengthen teaching and competencies in water treatment technology and fish health. The PhD candidate will investigate how dissolved CO₂, in combination with other water quality parameters, affects production performance of Atlantic salmon. This will be achieved through growth trials and physiological experiments as part of a preventive strategy for CO₂‑related production disorders. A secondary focus is systematic analysis of degasser installation performance under different operating conditions, contributing to empirical understanding and the development of a teaching platform.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and analyse fish experiments in aquaculture facilities
• Collect biological samples and observational data
• Participate in degassing trials and perform biological and water quality analyses
• Disseminate results through scientific publications and presentations
• Complete 30 ECTS of PhD coursework and conduct an external research stay
• Contribute to teaching and supervision of master’s students

Qualifications

Applicants must hold a relevant two-year master’s degree (120 ECTS) in biology, aquaculture, engineering, or a related field, with an academic level equivalent to a Danish master’s degree. The ideal candidate demonstrates:

• High motivation and curiosity for experimental research
• Experience or strong interest in fish physiology and production biology
• Interest in dissolved gases in water and gas transfer technology
• Strong academic record and analytical skills
• Excellent written and oral communication in English
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

What we offer

DTU is a leading technical university recognised globally for research, education, innovation, and scientific advice. The position provides a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment characterised by collegial respect and academic freedom. The appointment is based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations; the allowance is agreed with the relevant union. Employment is for 3 years, with an expected start date of 1 January 2027 or by mutual agreement. PhD candidates will be enrolled in DTU’s general PhD programme, subject to academic approval.

About the research environment

The position is hosted by the Section for Aquaculture at DTU Aqua, located in Hirtshals. The section conducts research on sustainable farming technologies, recirculation systems, chemical water quality, biofiltration, aquaculture microbiology, waste treatment, and fish welfare. Facilities include a wide array of experimental aquaculture systems and well‑equipped laboratories. DTU Aqua—the National Institute of Aquatic Resources—works for well‑functioning oceans, rivers, and lakes and contributes to a sustainable blue bioeconomy. The institute employs about 360 people, with over 35 nationalities represented.

How to apply

Submit your complete online application no later than 31 July 2026 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be compiled into a single PDF file (in English) containing:

• Cover letter motivating your application
• Curriculum vitae
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (including official description of the grading scale)

You may apply before obtaining your master’s degree but cannot begin the position before receiving it. Late applications will not be considered. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of age, gender, disability, race, religion, or ethnic background. Due to critical technology research, open‑source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates. For further information, contact Professor Peter Vilhelm Skov ([email protected]).

Original vacancy