Francesca Riva

Wade Group, Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Current Research

I am currently working within the SalmoStrong project at the Roslin Institute and the University of Edinburgh, where I focus on the discovery of biomarkers associated with cardiomyopathy syndrome (CMS) and salmonid rickettsial septicaemia (SRS) in Atlantic salmon. My research applies multi-omics approaches to identify molecular indicators of fish health and infection, supporting improved robustness, welfare, and sustainability in Scottish aquaculture. Within the Robustness Phenotypes pillar, my work contributes to the development of innovative tools for monitoring fish health under both experimental and field conditions, with the aim of improving disease resilience and production efficiency.

Francesca Riva in front of hills

Background

My scientific journey began in Italy with a strong interest in animal biology and biotechnology, which progressively evolved into a focus on animal health through molecular and omics-based approaches. During my studies and research career, I had the opportunity to work across different countries and research projects, ranging from poultry nutrition and microbiota research to fish immunology, proteomics, and biomarker discovery.

I obtained both my Bachelor’s Degree in Veterinary Biotechnology and my Master’s Degree in Veterinary Biotechnology from the University of Milan (Italy), where I developed a solid foundation in molecular biology, biotechnology, and animal science.

I then joined the Marie Skłodowska-Curie European Joint Doctorate (MANNA) programme between the University of Glasgow and the University of Zagreb, where I completed my PhD in Molecular Animal Nutrition. My doctoral research focused on microbiota and omics technologies, mainly proteomics and metabolomics, to investigate the effects of novel dietary strategies on gut health and physiology in poultry.

Following my PhD, I transitioned into aquaculture research. I worked on salmon proteomics at the University of Glasgow and later on salmon immunology at WellFish Tech in Scotland, strengthening my expertise in host-pathogen interactions and biomarker discovery. I also worked as Study Coordinator and Aquatic Veterinarian at AquaBioTech Group in Malta, where I expanded my experience in aquatic animal health and applied aquaculture research in industry settings.

 

[2012 – 2015] Veterinary Biotechnology Degree, University of Milan, Italy

[2015 – 2017] Veterinary Biotechnology Master Degree, University of Milan, Italy

[2018 – 2022] PhD, University of Glasgow, UK & University of Zagreb, Croatia

[2022 – 2023] Postdoc, University of Glasgow, UK

[2023 – 2025] Postdoc, WellFish Tech & University of the West of Scotland, UK

[2025 – 2026] Study Coordinator and Aquatic Veterinarian, AquaBioTech Group, Malta

[2026 – Present] Postdoc, Roslin Institute, UK

 

Favourite Aquaculture Species

I enjoy working across a range of aquaculture species, including seabass, tilapia, shrimp, and salmon, each of which presents distinct biological and health challenges. However, Atlantic salmon remains my primary research focus and area of greatest interest.

 

Interests, Hopes and dreams

I love travelling and discovering new places, especially when I can experience local culture, nature, and food. I enjoy meeting new people and making the most of opportunities to explore different countries. I am also a big animal lover, especially dogs, and I really enjoy spending time with them whenever I can. Sport is another important part of my life, particularly circus arts, which I find both inspiring and energising.

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