Metabolic costs of learning and memory in a key pollinator

The bumblebee Bombus terrestris is a key UK pollinator that relies upon sophisticated cognitive abilities to efficiently exploit a complex floral landscape. Impairment of cognitive function has been put forward as a mechanism that may underlie well-documented negative effects of pesticides on bees, but the critical supporting data are currently missing. This is because we know almost nothing about how cognitive abilities impact upon fitness in bees. Current work in our research group aims to close this knowledge gap, and this project will provide a significant contribution by focussing on the metabolic costs of cognitive investment for individuals and colonies.

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To apply for this studentship, please visit the Imperial College & Royal Holloway BBSRC DTP website: http://www.imperial.ac.uk/bbsrc-doctoral-training-partnership/