Adams eventually arrived at the research station located near several Maijuna indigenous communities. He plunged into his work, researching the behavior and life cycle of native, non-stinging species of bees. The Maijunas were instrumental in helping him learn about these bees, as well as about their community’s bee management practices.
His second surprise of the trip was realizing that meeting the Maijuna people would have a lifelong impact on him. He now hopes that his research can ultimately affect social change.
“My research is absolutely focused on the scientific component of these stingless bees,” said Adams. “But my personal hope, without letting it influence my research findings, is that my work can show off the biodiversity of this region and the importance of this land and the people who live there.”
Learn more about the research projects of the other 2023 Plastino Scholars.
Interest meetings on Oct. 5 and Oct. 16
The Plastino Scholars Program was established in 2007 by a gift from UD alumnus David A. Plastino. The program awards study grants up to $6,000 to selected undergraduates who exhibit extraordinary talent, promise and imagination.
Find out what it takes to become a 2024 Plastino Scholar at interest meetings scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 5 at 5 p.m. and Monday, Oct. 16 at 7 p.m. Both meetings will be in room 205/206 of McDowell Hall, 25 North College Avenue, Newark.
Current Plastino Scholars will talk about their experiences in the program and the application process. UD undergraduates who are enrolled for at least 12 semester hours and have not completed more than five semesters are eligible to apply. For more information on the program visit www.cas.udel.edu/plastino-scholars.
Article by Margo McDonough
Photos courtesy of Christian Adams, Clara Cvik, Emma Knapp, Hailey Kremeneck
Photo illustration by Jaynell Keely S
September 29, 2023