One of the largest aquaculture research facilities in Europe is undertaking an expansion aimed at reinforcing the reputation of Scotland as a world leader in marine science.
The Marine Environmental Research Laboratory (MERL), part of Stirling University’s Institute of Aquaculture, is based at Machrihanish in Argyll.
It is upgrading its research facilities, helped by a £90,192 grant from economic development agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).
The centre provides contract research services and facilities to industry and academics working in the aquaculture sector, including a number of multinational corporations.
Its main focus is around new product development in veterinary medicine, vaccines and functional feeds for the salmon farming industry.
The laboratory has long-term service agreements with a number of multinational animal health organisations to develop a range of safe and environmentally acceptable products for the control of sea lice, which are a major threat to the industry.
Its expansion will increase the number of research tanks and is expected to lead to new jobs and bigger turnover.
MERL manager Bill Roy said: “We work closely with the aquaculture industry to tackle some of the important issues which affect its productivity and public reputation.
“The industry plays a major role in the economy of the Highlands and Islands, and investment in research infrastructure is vital to maintain and develop this sector for the wider public benefit.“
HIE senior development manager Morag Goodfellow said: “This project is a key element in increasing the capacity of the centre and building on what is already considered a high quality research and development institution.”