Kirsten Traynor

I am a biologist trained in animal behavior, genetics and neuroscience using the honey bee as a model system. My research interests include the evolution of social behavior, the division of labor, pheromone communication and ecosystem services. I span basic and applied research, investigating how pesticides disrupt colony dynamics, how the parasitic varroa mite has adapted to its new host, how social insects communicate via pheromones, and how to improve honey bee queen breeding through selection and instrumental insemination. I am a strong advocate of educational outreach and building a bridge between science and practice as evidenced by my roles in launching a new quarterly print magazine 2 Million Blossoms: protecting our pollinators, as former editor of the monthly publication American Bee Journal and the quarterly publication Bee World. Public speaking is something I enjoy, easily adapting content for other scientists or a lay audience. My grant writing skills have brought in over $700,000 in funding.