In an era where pollinators are in global decline, one UK scientist is leading the charge to protect bees and build a more resilient future for agriculture: Dr. Maggie Gill.
With over a decade of frontline experience managing honeybee health, and now a senior scientist at the UK’s Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), Dr. Gill has become a respected voice in the international effort to safeguard pollinators.
A Deep-Rooted Passion for Bees and the Environment
Dr. Gill’s journey began with a deep-rooted passion for natural science and the environment. She holds a BSc Honours in Natural Science and an MSc in Entomology, and has worked extensively with bees across Europe, North America, and Asia. Her experience spans both practical beekeeping and high-level policy research, making her a rare bridge between field-based knowledge and government science.
Before joining Defra, Maggie spent 10 years at the National Bee Unit, first as a Seasonal Bee Inspector, then as Regional Bee Inspector for Wales. During this time, she was instrumental in educating beekeepers, detecting notifiable pests, and managing disease outbreaks across the UK.
Leading Government Research on Environmental Land Management
Now a senior scientist at Defra, Maggie works at the heart of the Environmental Land Management (ELM) and Future Farming and Countryside Programme. Her role focuses on supporting sustainable agriculture, protecting biodiversity, and guiding policy to support pollinators and ecosystems across the UK countryside.
Her work ensures that bee health is considered in land-use decisions, helping shape farming practices that are both productive and ecologically responsible.
Founder of PHIRA-Science: A Global Effort for Pollinators
In response to growing threats to pollinator health – from Varroa mites and Tropilaelaps to habitat loss and pesticides – Dr. Gill founded PHIRA-Science, an independent research initiative focused on:
- Improving pollinator health and sustainability
- Facilitating collaboration among scientists
- Supporting community-driven solutions to pollinator threats
- Raising independent funding for vital research
PHIRA-Science is grounded in a belief that science should be practical, accessible, and rooted in real-world beekeeping experience.
Sharing Knowledge: Research, Webinars & Global Collaboration
Dr. Gill regularly collaborates with universities, NGOs, and government agencies across the globe. Her work includes:
- International research on Tropilaelaps mites, one of the greatest emerging threats to honeybees
- Speaking engagements at major beekeeping conferences and scientific symposiums
- Public webinars and training sessions for beekeepers, government advisors, and scientists
- Development of open-access resources for monitoring and managing bee pests
Her recent warnings about Tropilaelaps mites reaching Europe have led directly to government action, including restrictions on queen bee imports from Ukraine – showcasing the real-world impact of her science.
Why Dr. Maggie Gill Matters – Now More Than Ever
As climate change, disease, and global trade continue to stress honeybee populations, Maggie Gill’s leadership is vital. She represents a unique blend of practical beekeeping expertise, academic rigour, and public policy influence.
Whether you’re a hobbyist beekeeper, a commercial farmer, or simply someone who cares about biodiversity, following Dr. Gill’s work offers a roadmap for resilience in a rapidly changing agricultural landscape.
- Explore PHIRA-Science: https://phira-science.org
- Read Maggie’s research on Tropilaelaps mites
- Join webinars and training events hosted by BBKA, Defra, and PHIRA-Science
- Support independent pollinator research