Orkney Shellfish Hatchery gets grant for new posts

Orkney Shellfish Hatchery (OSH) will be creating four new graduate positions, thanks to a grant from the Highlands and Islands Enterprises’ Graduate Support Programme.

The 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. The graduate Hatchery Technician positions will offer those who have studied in the field the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in a fully operational, state-of-the-art and biosecure hatchery facility.

Dr Nik Sachlikidis, Managing Director of Aquaculture for OSH said: “We are thrilled to have been chosen as one of the winners of the Highlands and Islands Enterprises’ Graduate Support Program grant. 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. Most importantly, we are excited to bring more skilled, local employment to Orkney.

“We would like to extend a huge thank you to Highlands and Islands Enterprise for their ongoing support and we are excited to fill the positions quickly with graduates that are keen to be a part of our exciting Native Oyster and Clawed Lobster projects.”

OSH is a multi-species aquaculture hatchery supplying premium shellfish products for restoration initiatives.