We are currently seeking an enthusiastic Ph.D. student with experience in honey bee virus research. We invite applications with relevant research experience who are passionate about conducting research and innovation activities on the project titled: “From genes to queens: a systemic approach to improve bee resistance.” The successful candidate will investigate the interplay between genetic and environmental factors in honey bee viral infection dynamics and characterize the variation in honey bee responses to viral infections, aiming to identify genetic markers for virus resistance.
Additionally, the successful candidate will collaborate with professional honey bee queen producers in Mississippi to help select and reduce viral infections in commercial queen-producing operations. This work will be done in collaboration with Drs. Michael Simone-Finstrom, Arian Avalos, and Michael Goblirsch at the USDA-ARS in Baton Rouge, LA, and Poplarville, MS. Therefore, the successful candidate will have access to gain skills and expand their network with them.
Contact for additional information:
Dr. Esmaeil Amiri, Mississippi State University, ea795@msstate.edu