Higher Institute of Biotechnology
A word from the Director
The Higher Institute of Biotechnology (ISB), unique in Mauritania, is part of the University of Nouadhibou, established on May 23, 2025 by decree no. 066-2025 of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
ISB aims to play a major role in training, research, expertise and the development of applied sciences, particularly in biotechnology and emerging technologies. Its mission is to address the great challenges of our time, including food security, sustainable development, public health and environmental protection.
Thanks to highly qualified staff, rigorous academic programs, its commitment to scientific and economic integration, and solid partnerships with national and international actors, the Institute aims to train talent able to play a key role in scientific innovation and job creation in Mauritania.
As part of an ambitious diversification of its programs, ISB began with the Bachelor in Fisheries Sciences and Blue Biotechnology. This program aims to prepare qualified technicians able to support the sustainable development of aquatic resources, putting science, innovation and technology at the service of fisheries, aquaculture and the marine environment.
I warmly thank everyone who contributes to ISB's success, as well as our national and international partners. To the students who have chosen our institute: your training at ISB is a true opportunity to take part in scientific and technological progress, and to actively contribute to the future of our people.
Dr. Ahmed ABEID
Director of the Higher Institute of Biotechnology
Overview
The Higher Institute of Biotechnology (ISB), unique in Mauritania, is part of the University of Nouadhibou. It aims to play a major role in training, research, expertise and the development of applied sciences, particularly in biotechnology and emerging technologies.
ISB applies the LMD system (Bachelor – Master – Doctorate), in line with higher-education standards. This system ensures progressive, flexible and harmonized training, fostering student mobility, recognition of degrees and continuation of studies at national and international levels.
Three fundamental pillars
ISB's programs are built around:
Initial training
Scientific research and development
Continuing education
Our mission
The Institute offers programs oriented toward careers in:
Main Program
Bachelor in Fisheries Sciences and Blue Biotechnology
The three-year program is designed in line with labor-market needs, in consultation with stakeholders in fisheries, coastal and littoral sectors (companies, partner institutes and universities). Its main objective is to provide students with a solid multidisciplinary education in biotechnology applied to the fisheries and agri-food sectors.
Skills developed
The program equips students with the following skills:
- Acquire foundational knowledge of the biology of aquatic organisms (fish, crustaceans, mollusks, algae, microorganisms)
- Understand how aquatic ecosystems function and the interactions between fisheries resources, the environment and human activities
- Master the basics of sustainable management and exploitation of fisheries resources (fishing, aquaculture, conservation)
- Learn the basics of blue biotechnology, including the use of aquatic organisms in food, health, environment and industry
- Develop practical and technical skills: biological analyses, stock monitoring, breeding techniques, processing and valorization of marine products
- Prepare for professional integration or further studies in marine sciences, aquaculture, biotechnology and environmental management
Career outcomes
Graduates of the Bachelor in Fisheries Sciences & Blue Biotechnology can work as:
Continuing education
The Bachelor also opens access to higher programs: