The Dr Napier Studentship

Fisheries Science in Shetland The Dr Napier Studentship is an annual summer studentship in fisheries science, delivered in partnership by the Shetland Fishermen’s Association (SFA) and UHI Shetland’s Centre for Sustainable Seafood. The programme honours the legacy of Dr Ian Napier, whose career exemplified the value of science grounded in real‑world fishing industry knowledge. The studentship offers undergraduate students a unique opportunity to gain hands‑on experience of fisheries science and management in Shetland, working closely with researchers and the local fishing industry.

About the Studentship

• Duration: 8 weeks (end of June – end of August)
• Frequency: Offered annually
• Location:
• Based at UHI Shetland’s Scalloway campus and/or Shetland Fishermen’s Association
• Fieldwork across the Shetland Islands, including vessel‑based work and industry site visits

One undergraduate student is selected each year. Applicants from fisheries science, marine biology, environmental science, or fisheries management and policy are encouraged to apply.

Where appropriate, returning students may be supported for multiple summers to help foster “home‑grown” fisheries science capacity and long‑term industry relationships in Shetland.

What You’ll Gain

The successful student will be inducted as a visiting UHI Shetland researcher, with access to training, facilities and online resources. The role offers a rich blend of practical experience and professional development, including:

• Assisting onboard UHI research vessels, such as the Shetland Inshore Fish Survey
• Shore‑based biological sampling, including shellfish work
• Visits to fish markets, processing facilities and fishing vessels
• Opportunities to support pelagic fisheries sampling, including herring (timing dependent)
• Optional training and experience in:
• GIS marine mapping
• Statistical computing (R)
• Building professional networks across science and industry

Students are encouraged to reflect on their learning through a daily activity diary and by contributing to blogs or social media posts that help promote the studentship.

Financial Support

The studentship provides a comprehensive support package:

• £2,800 stipend (£350 per week for 8 weeks)
• Free accommodation at UHI Shetland’s Port Arthur House (Scalloway)
• Mandatory training, including Sea survival

Who Can Apply

Applicants must:

• Be 18 or over
• Be enrolled full‑time in an undergraduate degree at a UK university in a relevant discipline
• Hold a full driving licence

Students in their fourth year who are seeking experience related to an honours project may also apply.

Those with more than six months of prior professional fisheries experience (excluding previous bursary or studentship placements) are not eligible.

Returning Students

Previous Dr Napier Studentship recipients may apply to return for up to three placements, provided they:

• Remain undergraduate (or have recently completed their degree)
• Have performed well previously
• Demonstrate strong commitment and potential

Application Timeline

• Applications open: 14/05/2026
• Deadline: 31/05/2026

Why Apply?

The Dr Napier Studentship is designed to develop the next generation of fisheries scientists with a strong appreciation of the realities of working fishing communities. By combining academic research with direct industry experience, the programme supports careers that can positively contribute to Shetland’s fisheries and beyond.

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