Quick guide to aquaculture
What is aquaculture and how is it solving global food security?
What is aquaculture?About the Institute of Aquaculture
Founded in 1971, the Institute of Aquaculture is the leading international aquaculture centre and the largest of its kind in the world.
We provide high-quality research, teaching, training, technology development and consultancy.
We work with governments, regulatory bodies, industry, pharmaceutical suppliers, fish farmers and supply chains to tackle global problems of food security, hunger and sustainability through aquaculture. As an global organisation, we have links and partnerships with over 50 countries.
Our community boasts 180 highly skilled staff and students. We have built up a first-class, international reputation with our work and have an annual operating budget of approximately £10 million.
University of Stirling wins the UK’s highest academic honour
Institute of Aquaculture scoops the Queen’s Anniversary Prize.
Our research
We proudly bring together world-class researchers from a variety of disciplines in order to meet the wide range of challenges the world faces as aquaculture grows to meet global food demand.
Our research focuses on critical questions, such as how to develop strategies for sustainable aquaculture and aquatic food security, how to inform modern commercial markets and how to support communities in developing countries so they have enough to eat. 100% of our research impact in Aquaculture is rated world-leading (REF 2021).
Our teaching
We run innovative aquaculture and marine biology degrees as well as training and continuing professional development courses. We use our research and expertise to ensure our teaching is at the forefront of new science in aquaculture. Find out more about studying with us.
Our consultancy and business services
We provide a wide range of high-quality aquaculture business services to support the international industry including laboratory analysis, collaborative research, risk assessment, consultancy and contract research services.
Our facilities
We aim to provide the highest standard of facilities in an ever-changing commercial, academic and regulatory environment.
We have freshwater sites in Central Scotland, tropical and temperate freshwater recirculation systems in Stirling and marine facilities in the West of Scotland.
Find out more about our research facilities.
Our community
The Institute has grown steadily since its formation to reach a strong global position. We now boast a community of 180 highly skilled staff and students. We also work with a network of international partners and businesses, some of whom are represented by our advisory board.
You can find out more about our staff and how to contact them in our staff directory.
If you’re an alumnus of the Institute please keep in touch by updating your details with our Alumni services.
Athena SWAN
The Athena SWAN initiative is a national charter developed by the Equality Challenge Unit in 2005 (now part of Advance HE). Athena SWAN recognises and promotes good practice in gender equality.
The Institute of Aquaculture has been awarded a Bronze Athena SWAN award which is valid until 2025.
You can find out more about Athena SWAN at the Institute of Aquaculture and visit our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Aquaculture website.