Tackling fish fraud: Investigating the use of proteins and DNA in determining species identification in commercial fish products

About the Project

We invite applications for self-funded, full-time or part-time PhD study

A self-funded PhD position is available in the Harvey research group. We specialise in the development and application of biomolecular methods—particularly proteomics and genetics—for species identification. We work with a wide variety of animal-derived materials, including bone, skin, fin, muscle, as well as powders and processed or cooked foods. We use mass spectrometry (MALDI-ToF, LC-MS/MS) and genetic amplification (PCR) and sequencing to obtain species identification and apply this to a wide range of research questions, including food fraud detection, zooarchaeological investigations, and explorations into wildlife crime and illegal species trade.

About the project

It is estimated that one-third of the world’s fish stocks are overfished, and this proportion continues to grow (Pauly et al., 2005, FAO, 2024). Increasing demands on the planet’s remaining fish populations, plus monetary incentives, are facilitating ‘fisheries crime’ such as food fraud (species substitution, mislabelling), illegal fishing and trade in endangered species.

Approximately one-quarter of fish samples from all studies on food fraud have been found to be mislabelled (Naaum et al., 2016). Combating fisheries crime is therefore a critical component in both human and ecological health, but is also a highly complex task that pivots on the ability to correctly identify fish products. Even when a fish is butchered, and its identifying features are lost, characteristic ‘biomolecules’ remain within the samples, including proteins and DNA (Armani et al., 2012; Dierickx et al., 2022). These markers can be exploited to determine the original identity of a sample, as well as evidence of contaminants or adulteration. DNA can give us species and sometimes population-level information, but can also degrade very easily such as in cooked or heavily processed foods. Proteins are generally more stable under such conditions, but they may offer lower taxonomic resolution.

This project will target these biomolecules and investigate instances of fish mislabelling and fraud across a range of samples. It will also investigate the limits of each biomolecule in obtaining species identification from cooked fish products, including elasmobranchs (sharks and rays), as one of the most endangered and overfished groups of fish in the world (Dulvy et al., 2014).

This project is interdisciplinary and collaborative. The project can be designed around your specific interests and strengths. We encourage these interests to be put forward during application. This project will be based at Exton Park campus at the University of Chester—in the heart of the Roman walled city of Chester, UK.

Training and Facilities

The successful applicant will join a vibrant community within the School of Natural Sciences. The project includes:

• Access to a fully equipped molecular laboratory
• Comprehensive training in proteomics and genetic analyses
• Opportunities for industry engagement and conference participation
• Support for professional development, including careers support
• Opportunities to contribute to impactful, real-world research

Who should apply?

Applicants should hold a BSc (1st or Upper 2:1) honours degree (or equivalent) in a biological science degree or a related area. An MSc qualification in a related area is desirable. Previous laboratory experience is highly desirable and we encourage you to highlight this experience in your application.

If you are an International or UK student with your own funding, please email Dr. Virginia Harvey directly via this website or by email v.harvey@chester.ac.uk.