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Orkney Shellfish Hatchery welcomes new graduates through grant program

The Orkney Shellfish Hatchery, a multi-species aquaculture hatchery that supplies shellfish products to the restoration market, has secured funding for a number of new aquaculture graduate positions, after winning a Scottish educational grant, which is courtesy of the Highlands and Islands Enterprises’ Graduate Support Program.

The program is dedicated to providing graduates of all ages across Scotland who have finished their studies in the past four years, with well-paid work experience placement in key sectors, spanning across a wide variety of industries.

With the help of the program, Orkney Shellfish Hatchery will employ four new aquaculture graduates to continue its research into the on-land culture of premium Native Flat Oyster spat and European clawed lobster. Through the program, graduates who have studied in the field will be given the opportunity to gain work experience in a fully operational, state-of-the-dart and bio-secure hatchery facility.

“This funding will allow us to bring new, eager graduates into the team, providing them with the opportunity to take their first steps into the hatchery world, alongside our team of experienced and highly knowledgeable aquaculture professionals,” said Dr. Nik Sachlikidis, managing director of Aquaculture for Orkney Shellfish Hatchery. “Most importantly, we are excited to bring more skilled, local employment to Orkney.”

With the funding secured, Orkney Shellfish Hatchery is now actively searching for aquaculture graduates to fill its hatchery technician positions.