Interview with Charlotte Barr

About Charlotte Barr

Charlotte is a Freshwater Optimiser at Bakkafrost Scotland. She has a master's degree in aquaculture from Harper Adams University and a PhD in aquaculture from the University of Stirling.

Inspiration for entering aquaculture

Charlotte spent many summers on a family friend's traditional earth pond rainbow trout farm growing up. However, it wasn't until the final year of her agriculture degree that she was introduced to aquaculture innovation on a global scale. Intrigued to learn more about the sector and further her understanding of salmonid aquaculture, she chose to pursue a master's degree in Aquaculture. She hasn't looked back since switching dairy cows for Atlantic salmon in 2017.

Aquaculture career

Since August 2022, Charlotte has been at Bakkafrost Scotland as Freshwater Optimiser. She is responsible for production planning for the freshwater department, analyses production data, and works alongside the management team to optimise production using data-led decision-making.

Prior to this, she was involved in a number of industry-based research trials in Ireland, Norway and Scotland, including:

• Nutrition trials exploring the use of alternative protein sources for salmonid diets
• Identifying the effects of lighting on clock gene expression from fertilisation to first feeding
• Exploring the effects of freshwater life history on the robust nature of Atlantic salmon smolts

Inspirational individuals and organisations

Charlotte feels fortunate to be surrounded by colleagues with a wealth of experience who are always willing to share their knowledge, which has made her transition from academia easier. She is also exceptionally grateful to her former academic supervisors and WiSA mentors for encouraging her to continually expand her understanding and to never give up even when there isn't an obvious answer. Many of them remain brilliant sounding boards when she needs honest advice or reassurance.

Importance of networking

Networking is the sole reason Charlotte is where she is today. When she didn't always know what was next and asked for help and advice, she was always met with introductions that led to her next adventure. A shared love of Jack Russells and creating personal connections helped land her dream career. In her current role, networking helps her further her understanding and learn from highly experienced sector professionals.

Inequalities in the sector

Charlotte notes that inequalities within the sector are not exclusively linked to aquaculture. She believes allies who speak out against inequalities and unjust prejudices are invaluable in addressing key issues and helping to promote a more positive work culture, making aquaculture a more achievable and desirable career choice for women and those from minority backgrounds.

Proudest achievement

• Graduating with her PhD in Aquaculture from the University of Stirling, celebrating 3½ years of dedication and resilience through uncertainty
• Being recognised by WiSA as Rising Star of the Year 2023

Advice for those starting or progressing a career in aquaculture

For every person who doubts your commitment or questions your judgement, there will be many more who will encourage and support you along your journey and celebrate your successes with you. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone — it's where you learn the most about yourself. Even if an opportunity doesn't pan out exactly how you thought it would, learning what you don't like can help you narrow down what you really enjoy.

Key drivers for innovation in Scottish aquaculture

Charlotte highlights the need to continue promoting data-led decision making within the sector and for researchers and innovators to continue working hand-in-hand with industry partners to help resolve current challenges in animal health and welfare, production efficiency, and sustainability. Together the sector can continue to address dynamically evolving challenges within the environment in which it operates.