Dr John Roberts

Dr John Roberts leads CSIRO’s bee pathology research, focusing on the pests and diseases that threaten honey bee health and the critical pollination services they support across Australia.

Since joining CSIRO at Black Mountain, ACT in 2010, John has pioneered the use of molecular tools to tackle key biosecurity and health challenges affecting honey bees in Australia. His research spans the genetics, pathogens, and management of emerging mite pests such as Varroa and Tropilaelaps in the Pacific region, and he led Australia’s first nationwide study of honey bee viruses and other pathogens.

John’s work also explores the genetic and nutritional factors influencing fungal diseases like Nosema and chalkbrood, and he has developed advanced diagnostic tools for detecting bee mites and viruses. He is currently investigating the use of RNA interference (RNAi) technology as a targeted and sustainable method to control Varroa mites and other honey bee pests and pathogens—an approach that could transform bee health management in Australia.

He is also exploring the use of hive environmental DNA (eDNA)—collected by bees during foraging—as a novel method for cross-industry surveillance of bee pests, plant pathogens, and invasive weeds. His team has recently developed eDNA-based methods specifically for detecting Varroa mites, offering a powerful new tool for early detection and biosecurity monitoring.

In collaboration with industry partners, John is helping to refine honey bee genetic importation protocols and support the development of a Varroa-resistant breeding program in Australia.

His research is supported by AgriFutures Australia’s Honeybee and Pollination R&D Program, Hort Innovation, and the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. John’s work is strengthened by close collaboration with university researchers and industry stakeholders across Australia and New Zealand, reflecting the importance of cross-sector partnerships in advancing honey bee health and biosecurity.