Ian Bricknell

Ian Bricknell is a Professor of Aquaculture Biology at the School of Marine Sciences, University of Maine, where he also serves as the founding Director of the Aquaculture Research Institute. His work is supported by the Maine Agricultural and Forest Experiment Station, and he contributes significantly to research on aquatic animal health, particularly in the context of Maine's aquaculture industry.

Education:

• Ph.D., Lancaster University, 1990
• BSc in Zoology with Geology (1st Class Hons), University of Reading, 1986

Bricknell's research focuses on fish immunology, host-pathogen interactions, and marine parasitology, with special emphasis on sea lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis), infectious salmon anemia virus (ISAV), and lobster health. He studies how parasites evade host immune responses, the development of larval fish immunity, and disease detection methods. His work bridges fundamental science and applied aquaculture solutions, aiming to improve biosecurity and sustainability.

His recent publications reveal a strong trend in understanding co-infections (e.g., sea lice and ISAV), immune development in larval fish, and the use of integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) to mitigate disease risks. He has pioneered methods for pathogen detection, vaccine development, and biological control using mussels.

Scientific Awards:

• Modern Geology Young Geologist of the Year Award (1991)
• ICES Presidential Service Award (2008)
• EAFP Best Poster Award (2003)

Bricknell has led major research initiatives, including the ongoing Hatch Project ME022015 on aquatic disease transmission and prevention. He mentors students and collaborates widely across institutions, contributing to global aquaculture health through advisory roles and international lectures. He is actively involved in developing vaccines against fish parasites and advancing IMTA systems.

He is associated with the Aquaculture Research Institute and has established a robust aquatic animal disease research group at the University of Maine. His lab focuses on disease ecology in both open-water and land-based aquaculture systems, aiming to create sustainable and resilient farming practices.