Descriptors and bioactivity of Leatherwood honey: an iconic Australian honey bee product

Authenticity of a unique bioactive honey is the goal of this project. Leatherwood (Eucryphia lucida) is a wild, native plant found in the northwest of Tasmania. Its white blossoms produce significant quantities of nectar which honey bees harvest to make an Australian iconic Leatherwood honey. Dedication and intensity of effort invested in the production of Leatherwood Honey is not reflected in its perceived value. Whilst bioactive, this honey is still to be appreciated for its health attributes.

This Scholarship, supervised by Dr Sandra Garland at the University of Tasmania and supported by the Tasmanian Beekeeping Association, provides an opportunity to identify the active constituents within the honey that promote antimicrobial, antioxidant and prebiotic activity. This will lead into analytical methodology to prove provenance and authenticity through chemical signatures. These skills are sought across the food and extractives industry and will place the candidate at the forefront of the emerging trend for high value, low quantity niche global products. The student will have the opportunity to experience the unique wilderness within which Leatherwood trees thrive. The Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) for Honey Bee Products is focussing on tying the honey product to place and flora. CRC is the interdisciplinary centre where researchers will work closely with industry partners. Project must start within January 2019 for completion by June 2022.

Eligibility
Applicants must have skills in chemistry relevant to this project

Basis of award
Academic Achievement

Students accepted include Australian Citizen, Australian Permanent Resident, and/or International.