Hong Kong Oyster Hatchery and
Innovation Research Unit (HKO-HIRU)
The University of Hong Kong
Post-doc positions in the Oyster Hatchery at The University of Hong Kong (HKU)
March 20, 2026
Post docs and Senior Research Assistants to Perform Impactful Novel Research work on Oysters in the University of Hong Kong
In our Hong Kong Oyster Hatchery and Innovation Research Unit (HKO_HIRU) at HKU, we are seeking researchers to investigate stress-induced omics and their transgenerational expression, as well as the genomic selection of multiple stress-tolerant strains in Hong Kong oysters. Recently, we were awarded a highly competitive grant of over 7 million HKD from the Research Grants Council and the industry partner Lee Kum Kee Co. Ltd. under RIF Scheme (https://www.ugc.edu.hk/eng/rgc/funding_opport/rif/index.html). This project focuses on genomic selection, microbiome analysis, and food chemistry in oysters from the South China region. As part of this initiative, we are recruiting 3 post docs and/or Senior RAs.
These positions are available immediately. The primary goal of these positions is to 1) develop tools for genome-based breeding of the Hong Kong oyster, a major aquaculture species in China – which is accounting almost ¼ of global production. Specifically, we will focus on the application of SNP genotyping platform in genomic selection for high salinity tolerance and disease resilient strains, 2) identify a scientifically innovative and practically feasible ways to improve taste and meat quality of oysters (food and sensory chemistry) via fattening processes during harvesting winter period, and 3) Identify microbiological and environmental factors involved in oyster mass mortality at the time of harvest in winter period using metagenomics and other omics and environmental techniques. These positions, in close collaboration with PhD students and others in the lab, may involve in hatchery production and maintenance of experimental oysters, conducting challenge experiments, analysis of genotype, microbiome, environmental and phenotype data, communication with growers and the oyster community around south China, and importantly, writing manuscripts for publication. Interdisciplinary International collaboration is KEY strength of our group.
We have established collaborations with relevant expert professors, i.e. Xiangdong LI from Polytechnic University (Metaogenomics), Jianwen Qiu from Baptist University (Genomics) and Guosheng YIN from HKU (Machine leaning) and mainland China researchers in these fields including industry partners and growers to provide you all adequate facility, guidance and opportunity to perform this impactful and innovative project work.
Qualifications: We are seeking a talented and hardworking candidate with a PhD degree in a related field. Applicants should have relevant research experience and a good publication record. Experience in genomic selection, food chemistry, or environmental microbiome is highly preferred. The monthly salary ranges from HK$25,000 to 35,000 (approximately US$3 to 4K per month), commensurate with publication record and potential to become an academic professor or scientist in the near future. Income tax in Hong Kong is negligible for this salary range. The exact salary and contract duration are negotiable.
How to apply: Please send your query or CV to Rajan via Email: rajan@hku.hk or WhatsApp: 852-95757923 or WeChat: wxid_s610q4iljvdu22. If interested and eligible, apply by 30th May 2026. We continue searching until a suitable candidate is identified.
V. Thiyagarajan (Rajan),
Director, Hong Kong Oyster Hatchery and Innovation Research Unit;
Assistant Dean (Experiential Learning) and Professor,
The Swire Institute of Marine Science and School of Biological Sciences