Christiane Eichner

Christiane Eichner is an Associate Professor at the Department of Biological Sciences (BIO), University of Bergen. Her work focuses on the molecular and biological mechanisms of the salmon louse (Lepeophtheirus salmonis), a major ectoparasite affecting salmonid aquaculture. She is affiliated with the Fish Disease Research Group (FDRG) and investigates host-parasite interactions, immune responses, and parasite physiology. Her research combines genomics, transcriptomics, and biochemical approaches to understand parasite adaptation, development, and interactions with hosts.

Key areas of research include immune modulation by salmon lice, gene expression patterns during parasite development, and the molecular basis of blood-feeding and egg production. Her studies often address practical challenges in aquaculture, such as developing strategies to combat louse infestations. Eichner collaborates with institutions like the Institute of Marine Research and employs advanced techniques like RNA sequencing and co-expression network analysis.

Her funding includes grants from the Research Council of Norway and the Fisheries and Aquaculture Industry Research Fund. She has advised multiple researchers and contributed to over a dozen peer-reviewed articles since 2015, with a focus on genomic studies, immune system dynamics, and parasite biology.

Notable contributions include identifying molecular pathways in salmon louse development, characterizing enzymes involved in host settlement, and analyzing the role of extracellular matrix proteins. Her work bridges fundamental biology and applied solutions for sustainable aquaculture.