Case study: Research-industry collaboration for sustainable farming and healthy fish

Jack Jarvis, a PhD student studying the impact of water quality on rainbow trout health and growth, demonstrates how industry engagement can be embedded into research from the very start of a researcher’s career.

Our case study series features inspiring researchers discussing their careers and sharing tips on how they engage beyond academia to drive change. The first of these case studies, looking at the work of PhD student Jack Jarvis with the British Trout Association, is now available.

To find out more about Jack and his work beyond academia, check out the full case study here.

A case study document of PhD student Jack Jarvis. In the top right corner is a photo of Jack looking into a cylindrical fish tank, and the DBAA logo. The text of the case study reads: Jack’s research-industry collaboration for sustainable farming and healthy fish Jack Jarvis, a PhD student studying the impact of water quality on rainbow trout health and growth, demonstrates how industry engagement can be embedded into research from the very start of a researcher’s career. ___ Living by the coast, Jack has always been interested in the aquatic environment. By building links with fish farms, his research into water quality has the potential to influence farming practices and improve fish health and growth. Jack started his career at Exmoor Fisheries, building on work experience gained during his biology degree. When his undergraduate supervisor needed a PhD researcher to investigate water chemistry and trout farming, he knew Jack would be the perfect fit and got in touch. Jack’s PhD research sees him working collaboratively with members of the British Trout Association and travelling to Denmark to learn about international best practice. Jack credits these strong partnerships to his understanding of the industry perspective and how to communicate beyond academia. Having worked in fish farming, he understands that farmers may not have the time to read scientific papers. Instead, he uses aquaculture meetings and conferences to communicate his preliminary findings and receive feedback. For Jack, the value of research is in its impact. By working closely with organisations like the British Trout Association, his work can affect policy, ultimately changing farming practices and having a positive impact on both the environment and the UK economy. For researchers interested in making connections with industry, Jack emphasises the importance of making use of the opportunities available. Workshops, mentorships, networking events: universities are rich environments for making connections and developing a broad range of skills, and Jack continues to take full advantage. “I'm always on the lookout for training opportunities that could lead to new connections beyond academia.” Jack’s story demonstrates the value of seeking out different perspectives and provides a powerful example of how embedding industry experience in a research career can help to create impact beyond academia. ___ “I want my research to have an impact. Working with industry, I can very clearly see that.” At a glance Top tips: Be persistent Draw on your networks Take every opportunity Make the first move Challenges: Meeting industry partners on common ground Learning to speak the language of industry