Applied Entomology Researcher - Sarah Arnold

Dr Sarah Arnold

My role at Niab

Many of my projects are focused on pollination of soft fruit crops in protected systems such as polytunnels and glasshouses. I am also working on aspects of integrated pest management in both soft and tree fruit: we are looking at how we can manage pests better in crops like strawberry, raspberry and apple using approaches such as natural enemies.

Fruit plays a vital role in a healthy diet, and increasing UK production in a sustainable manner is essential. This requires reducing our reliance on pesticides and using alternative pest management strategies – but we need to make sure these are effective for growers. 

Many UK fruit crops depend on insect pollination, and we rely heavily on managed pollinators to ensure these crops are getting the pollination services that they need. However, managed pollinators do not always perform effectively in modern growing systems. I am interested in exploring ways to improve pollinator performance so we can ensure high quality, nutritious, sustainable fruit production in our diets. 

My previous experience

I find insects fascinating and I started my scientific career looking at bumblebee behaviour in different lighting conditions and how they respond to colours of flowers. Over time, my interests shifted towards applied entomology including work on post harvest pests, cocoa and African bean crop pollination, and natural enemy interactions. These experiences led to me working at Niab where I think that we are making a real difference for the UK fruit industry. It is exciting to do 
something real and know what impact it has the potential to make.

My qualifications

  • BA (Hons) Natural Sciences, University of Cambridge
  • PhD Queen Mary University of London

My future

My priority is high quality science with real world impact; research that not only advances knowledge but also supports growers and environmental stakeholders. As novel crops are introduced in the UK I am excited to find out about them and the new entomological challenges they might bring. At the same time, I am interested in seeing how horticultural crops can form part of a landscape that works for both people and nature.

 

Dr Sarah Arnold

Applied Entomology Researcher