FACILITIES

European Researchers Invited to Access Leading Aquaculture Facilities Free of Charge

AQUASERV - jaulas acuicultura Mediterráneo

Scientists and professionals working in aquaculture and marine sciences across Europe can now apply for free access to cutting-edge research facilities through AQUASERV’s Transitional Access programme.

The initiative, aimed at fostering cross-border scientific collaboration, is open to PhD students, early-career researchers, engineers, and staff from universities, non-profit organisation, and industry. It offers access to a broad range of infrastructures, including experimental aquaria, culture systems, mesocosms, analytical labs, and biobanks.

Backed by 30 institutions in 16 European countries, AQUASERV covers all expenses related to facility use, including travel, accommodation, and consumables. Remote access is also possible, allowing researchers to benefit from services such as sample processing, taxonomic identification, and organism rearing without the need to travel.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. However, those submitted by mid-July will be evaluated in November as part of a triannual review cycle.

According to AQUASERV, the programme is “designed to facilitate high-quality, cross-border scientific collaboration” in fields such as aquaculture, fisheries, ecosystem restoration, and marine biotechnology. Research supported by AQUASERV is expected to align with key EU strategies, including the European Green Deal, the Farm to Fork Strategy, and the Sustainable Blue Economy.

Through a network of six research infrastructures and 40 scientific partners, the programme provides access to advanced technologies including genomic sequencing, imaging, feed testing, and environmental monitoring.

Further details, including eligibility criteria and the full list of services, are available on the AQUASERV website.

Research Infrastructure services for sustainable aquaculture, fisheries and the blue economy