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½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ’s beekeeping research stand wins People’s Choice Award at R&I EXPO 2026

The University of Malta’s Biodiversity and Ecology Research Group (BERG), within the Institute of Earth Systems, showcased two projects funded by Xjenza Malta, ‘BeeSustain’ and ‘BEE-OPTECH4Honey’, at the R&I EXPO 2026 on 29 October. Held at Esplora in Kalkara, the event featured over 50 nationally funded research projects.

BeeSustain combines climate and environmental modelling, honeybee gut microbiome analysis and multispectral drone imagery to assess suitable apiary locations, promote colony health and support sustainable beekeeping. The research team included , responsible for climate and environmental monitoring; Mr Mark Mifsud, who developed the modelling component; Mr Arthur Lamoliere, responsible for drone imagery; and Ms Simone Cutajar, who was responsible for honeybee testing at the University of Bologna.

BEE-OPTECH4Honey, a collaboration between Malta and Türkiye, uses satellite and drone imagery, artificial intelligence and geographical information systems to identify suitable foraging areas, optimise hive relocation and investigate honey quality, including Maltese wild thyme honey. Mr Arthur Lamoliere initially managed the project and conducted drone surveys, while Mr Matthew Calleja subsequently took over project management and led the honey analysis.

The stand featured a DJI Mavic 3M drone, research posters, honeybee gut microbiota imagery, beekeeping equipment and a frame of live honeybees, allowing visitors to observe colony activity up close. Visitors also sampled Maltese wild thyme honey harvested in Manikata and Italian acacia honey, comparing their distinctive flavours.

The interactive exhibits attracted considerable interest from schoolchildren, teachers, researchers and the wider public, encouraging discussions about honeybee biology, sustainable beekeeping and technological innovation.

The stand received the People’s Choice Award for Best Stand, recognising the team’s engaging presentation of the University’s research and its efforts to make scientific knowledge accessible to the public.