Kiwi mussel expert hired to help secure Scotland's shellfish sector
Mussel farming project Shell-volution has appointed internationally recognised mussel aquaculture researcher Dr Brad Skelton, research fellow at the University of Auckland, as independent scientific advisor for a one-year pilot, bringing internationally recognised expertise from one of the world’s leading mussel farming nations.
Skelton will provide independent scientific advice, constructive challenge, and an international perspective to help ensure Shell-volution’s research, innovation, and knowledge exchange activities deliver practical benefits for Shetland’s mussel sector and support the long-term growth of Scotland's shellfish industry.
Shell-volution is a £4.4 million Islands Growth Deal project funded by the UK Government and Scottish Government to transform Scotland’s mussel farming sector. Led by the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) in partnership with the mussel industry, the project is delivering research and practical innovation to improve the reliability of wild mussel spat recruitment, enhance farming practices, and support the future sustainability and productivity of the sector.
Technical scrutiny
As independent scientific advisor, Skelton will advise on the project’s research pipeline, review the feasibility and quality of proposed work, support technical scrutiny of project outputs, and help the team draw on successful approaches from established mussel farming industries overseas, particularly New Zealand.
Skelton has extensive experience in applied aquaculture research and knowledge exchange, working closely with New Zealand’s internationally recognised mussel farming sector. He has already met online with the Shell-volution team and Shetland mussel farmers and is expected to visit Shetland in September 2026.
Project director Gregg Arthur said: “We are delighted to welcome Dr Skelton to the project. His international experience of applied aquaculture research and close collaboration with New Zealand’s mussel farming industry will bring valuable independent insight as we develop practical solutions for Scotland’s shellfish sector. His expertise will help ensure our research delivers real benefits for producers and supports the long-term growth of the industry.”
