6 October 2025
Geni Bhargava, a Master’s student in the Aquaculture and Aquatic Resources Management (AARM) program at the Department of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources, Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), is advancing his expertise in shrimp health management through a 12-credit internship at SyAqua Siam Co., Ltd., Thailand. This internship, undertaken as part of his third-semester study, reflects AIT’s strong emphasis on combining academic knowledge with hands-on industry experience.
SyAqua is a global leader in shrimp breeding, specializing in high-performance, disease-resistant Pacific white shrimp (P. vannamei). Focused on genetics, nutrition, and health, it leverages advanced genomic selection and nutritional research to ensure balanced growth and survival. Its breeding programs, tested against major shrimp diseases, are trusted worldwide by hatcheries and farms.
From India to Thailand: A Journey of Passion and Purpose
Originally from India and holding a Bachelor of Fisheries Science (B.F.Sc.) degree, Geni has always been passionate about sustainable aquaculture. His academic and professional interests lie in shrimp broodstock management and the genetic enhancement of shrimp to improve resilience against disease and strengthen aquaculture sustainability.
Reflecting on his experience, Geni said:
“This opportunity has given me real-world exposure to the challenges of shrimp disease diagnostics and health management. I have strengthened my expertise in molecular and microbiological techniques, while illustrating how research-driven approaches can help address pressing issues in aquaculture. I am deeply grateful to my advisor, Dr. Krishna R. Salin, AARM Program Chair, and to Dr. Tanatchaporn Utairungsee, Laboratory Manager at SyAqua Siam Co., Ltd., along with the entire SyAqua team for their continuous guidance and mentorship.”
Hands-On Training in Shrimp Health Management
During his internship, Geni gained practical experience in shrimp health diagnostics and management, developing skills in:
- Disease Testing: Conducted trials for Early Mortality Syndrome (EMS) and Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP), monitored shrimp health, and recorded results.
- Sample Handling: Collected and preserved shrimp tissues for lab analysis.
- Molecular Diagnostics: Performed DNA extractions and real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests to detect pathogens.
- Microbial Studies: Cultured beneficial bacteria, isolated Vibrio species, and prepared stocks for experiments.
- Data Analysis: Organized and analyzed experimental data to track health trends and disease outcomes.
- Lab Standards: Followed biosafety, biosecurity, and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) guidelines.
These hands-on experiences have helped Geni improve his lab skills and better understand how to make shrimp more resistant to diseases and apply these strategies in breeding programs.
Linking Science to Industry Needs: AARM’s Commitment to Excellence
The practical skills Geni has acquired during this internship are directly applicable to the aquaculture industry. By integrating molecular diagnostics with microbial and experimental trial methods, his work contributes to the development of healthier, more resilient shrimp stocks. This supports sustainable farming practices, improves farm productivity, minimizes losses from disease outbreaks, and enhances the long-term viability of shrimp aquaculture worldwide.
The AARM academic program at the School of Environment, Resources and Development (SERD) at AIT continues to prepare students to meet the evolving needs of the global aquaculture industry by combining strong academic foundations with practical, industry-linked training. Student success stories like Geni’s highlight the program’s role in shaping professionals who can lead sustainable innovations in aquaculture and fisheries management.
