Master’s Thesis Position at the Chair of Plant-Insect Interactions: Investigating Compounds That Enhance Bee Fitness

14.09.2026, Diplomarbeiten, Bachelor- und Masterarbeiten

In this project, we aim to investigate pollen-derived molecules that enhance bee fitness and mediate resistance to infection, working with the buff-tailed bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) as the model species. The study assesses how specific nutrients influence, e.g., larval development and survival.

Methodological approach:
A Bombus terrestris colony will be kept in the laboratory. After oviposition, larvae will be transferred to pre‑prepared tubes containing pollen diets of controlled composition. Larval development will be monitored until pupation. The collected data will then be analysed statistically to determine nutrient‑dependent effects.

Research question:
Which pollen‑derived nutrients or molecular components are associated with improved fitness and health in Bombus terrestris?

Time frame:
Starting time is flexible, duration depends on the type of project.

Report possible in English or German.

Kontakt: annalena.becker@tum.de