NHMS Newsletter: November 2021
NHMS 2021 sample collection is now officially over!
A very big thank you to those of you who submitted samples this year. Almost 1200 were returned and we had a fantastic geographic spread.
In this newsletter I would like to answer 3 common questions for this time of year. Also, to re-advertise our exciting PhD opportunity. Unfortunately, last year’s successful candidate was unable to take up the position.
Common questions:
1: When can I expect my results from this year?
A number of participants are concerned they have not yet had their plant forage data. As I said in my last newsletter, there has been lots of measuring, weighing and filtering going on over the summer for the molecular stages of the scheme. Filtering is now completed for all samples and chopping of the filters into DNA extraction tubes is underway. DNA extraction should begin next week, but this will take a few months as DNA extractions are done individually. Following this, plant DNA barcode gene amplification, sequencing and bioinformatics is required. We anticipate that you will receive your results in the late spring as we are processing all samples returned this year. You will however, be kept informed of progress.
2: Can unused sample packs be returned next year?
Unused sample packs can be kept and used in any subsequent year.
3: Can I request a sample pack for 2022?
Packs for NHMS 2022 can now be requested - for dispatch from mid-March next year. To request a sample pack please log into your account https://honey-monitoring.ac.uk/, visit the Taking Part page and follow the instructions. This needs to be done every time you wish to request a pack.
PhD opportunity: Using environmental DNA (eDNA) to investigate the role of habitat upon the transmission of pollinator disease
For further details visit https://honey-monitoring.ac.uk/news-and-events/news/phd-opportunity-using-environmental-dna-edna-investigate-role-habitat-upon
Further questions?
Please visit our FAQs page (https://honey-monitoring.ac.uk/taking-part/faq), contact us via https://honey-monitoring.ac.uk/contact-us or email honey@ceh.ac.uk. Please do not phone.
It is unlikely I will send out another newsletter before next year so I would also like to take the opportunity to wish you all a very happy festive season, and a great start to 2022!
Anna
Dr Anna Oliver and the NHMS Team
