This event is part of our Sussex Research series. In this series, University of Sussex PhD students and Post-Docs are invited to share their exciting research with the Buzz Club, providing new information on the animals you share your garden with. 

Dr. Ciaran Harris is a postdoctoral researcher with an interest in bee foraging ecology and conservation. Ciaran's research has focused on seasonal changes in pollen and nectar availability for bees other insects, aiming to determine the months or seasons that are most challenging for foraging. Complementary methods were used to address this question, such as measuring nectar and pollen depletion in the field and using indicator organisms to collect information on foraging difficulty. This research has implications for both agricultural and garden management by identifying the seasons that additional flowers will be most beneficial.

Ciaran's research has also examined how agricultural practices, such as use of clover, can help provide food for bees during these challenging periods. His current work focuses on how ‘pollinator-friendly’ crop varieties can help produce additional food for bees while also providing co-benefits to farmers. The results from this research will help inform crop breeders and farmers.

This is an online webinar. If you cannot make the day of event, please still book a ticket and the recording can be sent to you.

Any queries, please contact: 
buzzclub@sussex.ac.uk