Aquariums and zoos are in a unique position to increase the understanding required to maintain and display a diverse variety of fish species in a positive state of wellbeing (Smith, 2023). We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join the project ‘Welfare assessment of fish in public aquaria’, a collaboration between Wageningen Livestock Research, Stichting Koninklijke Rotterdamse Diergaarde en Koninklijke Burgers’ Zoo, and funded as Public-Private Partnership by the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature.

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Positive animal welfare is a prerequisite for the existence of zoos and their unique role in the conservation of endangered species. Animals must be able to exhibit their natural behavior as much as possible, appropriate for their species-specific needs and legally stipulated in the Decree on Animal Keepers. This also applies to fish, for which, after lengthy scientific debate, it has only recently been established that this group of animals can consciously experience pain and stress, and also possesses more cognitive abilities than previously thought. Therefore, there is a lot of catching up to do to determine and possibly improve the welfare of fish in public aquariums.

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As a PhD student, you will contribute to research to monitor fish welfare in public aquariums, identify distinguishing characteristics, and develop concrete solutions to improve welfare. Ultimately, you will contribute to a scientifically sound welfare assessment for fish in public aquariums. The majority of the research will take place on-site at the project partners Diergaarde Blijdorp and Burgers' Zoo, under the practical guidance of experienced experts. You will also collaborate with WUR researchers from various disciplines: animal physiology, animal welfare, marine ecology, and experimental zoology.

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Deadline: March 18