Overview
PhD position in Honey bee research
Virus infections are found in virtually all honey bee colonies and, together with the parasitic mite Varroa, are considered the main causes of honey bee colony losses. Research has focused primarily on the Deformed wing virus (DWV), which has been well characterized in terms of its pathogenicity. However, methods for treating viral infections or preventing their development are still insufficiently explored. While beekeepers have access to a wide range of commercially available substances to suppress Varroa mites, there is currently no reliable procedure or commercial application for controlling viral infections in honey bees.
The results of our previous research show that extracts from certain fungi and plants exhibit antiviral effects against honey bee viruses. However, it is necessary to identify the active compounds responsible for these antiviral effects and to find a suitable carrier that enables sufficient uptake of these substances by the bee organism. The most advantageous approach to prevent viral infections would be the development of a effective vaccination method for honey bees. Although vaccination in insects was until recently considered impossible, recent findings suggest otherwise.
PhD project description
As part of the PhD programme, we offer a project focused on three interconnected objectives:
- To test selected natural compounds for their antiviral activity using three screening systems: cell lines, Drosophila and honey bees. The subsequent goal is to identify the active substances through fractionation.
- To investigate the antiviral effects of hyaluronic acid and to use its advanced carrier systems for effective delivery of antiviral compounds. In collaboration with the Czech company Contipro.
- To develop innovative glucan microparticles for vaccination and stimulation of antiviral immunity in honey bees. Basic research project with a strong emphasis on practical application and potential commercialization.
Why to join us?
- A project with real meaning and practical impact
- You will help bees and the planet
- An interdisciplinary approach
- Collaboration with the leading Czech company Contipro
- Funding secured for the full duration of the PhD studies
Requirements
- A Master’s degree in molecular biology/zoology
- Enthusiasm for science and for bees
- Ability to think independently and work with scientific literature
- No fear of bees. We will teach you everything else… Previous experience with bees is still very welcome.
Funding: Fully funded PhD position (4 years). The successful candidate will receive a university PhD scholarship and a part-time salary from the project, sufficient to cover living expenses in the Czech Republic.
Collaborative nature of the project between
- Laboratory of honey bee biology (Alena Krejčí) and Laboratory of insect immunometabolism (Adam Bajgar), University of South Bohemia (USB), Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics in České Budějovice
- Biology centre, Czech Academy of Sciences in České Budějovice
- Contipro company, Dolní Dobrouč
Language of the program: Czech or English.
How to Apply: Please send your CV and a motivation letter to akrejci@prf.jcu.cz
Deadline: 30/1/2026
