Title
Assessment of Vitamin E & C requirement for growth, hematological response, and immune performance in African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) strains fed with partial replacement of black soldier fly larvae meal (Hermetia illucens l.).
Closing date: 30 Jan 2025
Background
This research aims to investigate the dietary requirements of vitamins E and C to optimize the growth, health, and immune performance of Clarias gariepinus (African catfish) strains that are fed diets incorporating black soldier fly larvae meal (Hermetia illucens L.) as a partial replacement for traditional fish meal. The study focuses on evaluating the effects of these vitamins on several key aspects of fish health, including growth performance, nutrient retention, haematological parameters, and immune responses, across different strains of African catfish. By incorporating black soldier fly larvae meal, a protein-rich and eco-friendly feed ingredient, the research seeks to reduce aquaculture's reliance on conventional fish meal, which has environmental and sustainability concerns, while ensuring that high production standards are maintained. This approach aligns with the broader goal of promoting sustainable aquaculture practices. The research will provide valuable insights into the optimal vitamin supplementation for improving nutrient absorption and enhancing the health and immune function of African catfish, ultimately supporting more resilient and efficient aquafeeds. Students participating in this project will gain practical, hands-on experience in aquaculture nutrition, formulating balanced diets, conducting feeding trials, and analyzing fish health through advanced laboratory techniques. This experience will equip them with the expertise to address key challenges in sustainable fish farming, contributing to the development of innovative, resilient aquafeeds that support long-term industry growth.
The successful candidate is expected to undertake a comprehensive literature review and develop a concept/proposal for the study, conduct data curation and analysis, write a report, a thesis, and at least one manuscript, and communicate research findings to the project partners and other stakeholders.
Eligibility criteria
- Should be a national of an African country.
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as Aquaculture, Fisheries Science, Animal Science, Biology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline, and scored at least a second-class (upper division).
- Experience with experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis.
- Familiarity with research methodologies specific to aquaculture or animal nutrition would be advantageous.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills and ability to articulate research findings, prepare detailed reports.
- Candidates who are staff members of a public university, or considered for university teaching or research staff recruitment, are encouraged to apply.
- Qualified female candidates and candidates from less privileged regions or groups as well as candidates with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.
The MSc position is based in Kenya.
How to apply
Applications will be accepted up to 30th January 2025.
- Fill in the application form.
- A concise letter of motivation.
- A detailed CV (name, contact details, age, and gender), the names of at least 3 relevant referees.
- Copies of BSc and MSc diplomas and transcripts indicating all courses and obtained degrees.
- Do not submit your application by email. Only applications and supporting documents submitted online will be accepted.
- Applications submitted by email will be rejected.
Please note that: -
- Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
- Short-listed candidates are subject to an interview/written assessment.
Timeline
Closing date for applications 30th January 2025.
Questions
If you have any questions regarding the Programme or your application to icipe, kindly contact Ms. Vivian Atieno, Capacity Building Officer, icipe. Email: vatieno@icipe.org