Maggie Gill
Developing innovative bee health solutions to combat invasive pests and strengthen pollinator resilience in a changing climate.
Project
PHIRA-Science
URL
Year founded
2024
Business stage
Seed
High-growth sectors
Life Sciences
Sector
Agrifood
Location
Wales
Funding
Funded Award Winner
The problem and opportunity
Pollinators underpin global food production and biodiversity, yet honey bees face increasing threats from pests, diseases, climate change and global trade. One of the most serious emerging threats is Tropilaelaps, an invasive parasitic mite spreading into Europe after causing major colony losses across Asia. Existing treatment options are limited, particularly in temperate climates, creating an urgent need for effective, adaptable control methods.
The solution and innovation
PHIRA-Science is developing a climate-adaptive formic acid treatment designed to control Tropilaelaps and Varroa mites in temperate honey bee colonies. The project combines field research, international collaboration and practical beekeeping expertise to develop scientifically robust, accessible treatments. Alongside this, PHIRA-Science is producing training resources and technical guidance to improve detection, preparedness and disease management.
Market and ambition
The global beekeeping sector is facing growing pressure from emerging pests and declining pollinator health. PHIRA-Science aims to become a leading centre for practical bee health research, training and innovation, supporting beekeepers, researchers and governments to respond to emerging threats. The organisation is expanding international research partnerships and training programmes.
Founder perspective
Maggie Gill is a beekeeper, scientist and founder of PHIRA-Science with over 20 years’ experience in bee health and pollinator research. A former senior scientist at Defra and Regional Bee Inspector, she founded PHIRA-Science to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical beekeeping, developing accessible solutions that support pollinator health, food security and sustainable agriculture.
Women in Innovation Award
Recipient of an Innovate UK Women in Innovation Award 2025/26, receiving funding, tailored business support, and access to specialist training and networks. View all winners and highly commended applicants from the Women in Innovation cohort 2025/2026.