Kenneth Kenny Holbrook
Bee Health Laboratory Research Assistant and Apiculturist @Kentucky State University
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WORK HISTORY
Bee Health Laboratory Research Assistant and Apiculturist @Kentucky State University
Frankfort, KY, US
Research Assistant and Apiculturist in the Bee Health Research Lab at Kentucky State University\'s College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources. Assessed Honeybee Stressors and Apiary Management Practices in Kentucky by Mapping Honeybee Disease Prevalence, Identifying and Quantifying Pesticide Residues, and Performing an Epidemiological Survey of Honeybee Colony Losses. Conducted seasonal sampling of approximately 480 honeybee colonies across four combined physiographic regions of Kentucky. Prepared samples of 50 bees from each colony for RNA extraction, creating 48 pooled samples based on region, season, and colony strength. Utilized a metagenomics approach with deep sequencing of 144 cDNA libraries to identify and quantify honeybee pathogens from analyzed bees. Verified pathogen loads using Quantitative PCR (qPCR) and Sanger sequencing. Performed Nosema spore counts to confirm infection intensity. During seasonal bee sampling, beeswax, stored pollen, and honey samples were collected from hives. Shipped samples to the USDA-NSL for analysis using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS-MS). Analyzed samples for key pesticides, including pyrethroids, organophosphates, and neonicotinoids, based on their known toxicity to honeybees and wide use in Kentucky. Developed and distributed a standardized, self-administered questionnaire to beekeepers across Kentucky to assess overwinter colony loss rates and identify risk factors. Partnered with beekeeper associations, including the Kentucky State Beekeepers Association, to achieve a large sample size of respondents. Conducted a pilot study to fine-tune the questionnaire, ensuring clarity and accuracy. Ensured participant confidentiality and provided incentives to maximize response rates. Performed a comprehensive statistical analysis to find associations between management practices and colony mortality.
EDUCATION
Berea College
Bachelor’s Degree, Bachelor’s of Science in Agriculture and Natural Resources
Berea College
Minor , Sustainability and Environmental Studies (SENS)
ABOUT KENNETH KENNY HOLBROOK
Highly motivated professional with exceptional life and work experience in agriculture, government, and medicine. Passionate about helping people and preserving our wildlife and natural resources while practicing various conservation methods. Currently working at Kentucky State University’s College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources, Bee Health Research Laboratory, while contributing to the land grant operations with an exemplary work ethic and strong leadership.
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