Quantifying the impact of chronic pesticide exposure on disease susceptibility

Project Code

MRCPHS25Br Siviter

Research Theme

Population Health Sciences

Project Summary Download

Summary

Humanity has endured several outbreaks of infectious diseases that threaten population health. Environmental factors can influence disease susceptibility, but quantifying the impact of specific stressors is extremely challenging. Humanity regularly consumes pesticides at low concentrations. While risk-assessments ensure that consumers do not consume ‘dangerous’ levels of pesticides, the long-term impact of chronic exposure to multiple pesticides is difficult to quantify. Here, the candidate will explore the impact of chronic pesticide exposure on disease susceptibility and health, using bumblebees as a model system. The candidate will develop skills in experimental design, molecular techniques, and meta-analysis. 

Lead Supervisor

Dr Harry Siviter

Lead Supervisor Email

harry.siviter@bristol.ac.uk

University Affiliation

Bristol