Are you fascinated by pet nutrition, especially for aquarium fish? We're seeking an intern to research alternative protein sources for ornamental fish food! 🌱🐠

If you're also passionate about captive marine life, even better! This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience, contribute to innovative research, and make a real impact on sustainable aquatic pet nutrition. Apply now and be part of the change! 🚀

Task:

• Market Research: Investigate the current ornamental fish food industry and assess the market potential for alternative protein sources.
• Industry & Consumer Trends: Analyze how receptive pet owners, breeders, and businesses are to sustainable and alternative fish feed solutions.
• Nutritional Research: Explore how alternative proteins compare to traditional protein sources in terms of digestibility, fish health, growth, and coloration.
• Application in Captive Marine Animals: Investigate whether alternative proteins could be used to feed fish and other aquatic species in aquariums and marine institutions, such as the Oceanário de Lisboa.
• Scientific Literature Review: Summarize existing studies on fish nutrition, sustainable feed ingredients, and their impact on fish well-being.
• Experimental Support (if applicable, particularly for Master’s students conducting a thesis):
  • Assist in designing small-scale trials to evaluate the effects of alternative proteins on ornamental fish health, including growth rate, coloration, and overall well-being.
  • Collect and analyze data related to feeding trials, ensuring proper monitoring of fish response to the new diet.
  • Collaborate with research teams, aquarium specialists, or university labs to conduct controlled feeding experiments.
• Collaboration & Networking: Engage with industry professionals, aquarium specialists, and marine biologists to gather insights into the feasibility of introducing alternative proteins.
• Data Compilation & Presentation: Organize research findings into reports, presentations, or whitepapers for internal analysis or potential industry outreach.

Requirements:

• Currently pursuing or completed a degree in Biology, Animal Sciences, Oceanography, Marine Sciences, Marine Biology, Aquatic Resources, or a related field.
• Interest in fish nutrition, aquaculture, sustainable feed solutions, and alternative proteins.
• Strong analytical skills to assess both scientific and market data.
• Ability to research and synthesize findings from literature, market studies, and expert interviews.
• Good communication skills to summarize and present research insights.
• Self-motivated and proactive approach to exploring new ideas and solutions.
• Bonus: Master’s students interested in experimental research on fish health, coloration, and growth when fed alternative proteins.
• Bonus: Interest or experience in captive animal nutrition (e.g., species kept in aquariums or marine research centers).