Dr. Gabriele Soland
Managing Director
After a background in publicity and marketing, I found my true passion in biology. There, attending an inspiring lecture on hymenopterans led me to apidology and beekeeping, where I met my husband and discovered my dedication to the conservation aspects of beekeeping.
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As a consultant in honey bee conservation and breeding, I bring a scientific background as well as in-house professional beekeeping experience to the table. My focus is to help conserve the native honey bee biodiversity, and I am dedicated to helping clients achieve their conservation goals through sustainable bee breeding practices. Let me help you make a positive impact on the environment and the future of honey bees.
Bee related activities
2005 - today
Scientific Breeding
As Scientific Breeding Coordinator of Mellifera.ch, I was instrumental in the successful establishment of a sustainable breeding programme for the dark bee in Switzerland. I was able to balance and optimise conservation and breeding aspects while coordinating the efforts of many volunteers. My performance in this role has had a significant impact on beekeeping in Switzerland as it has been adopted by Apisuisse for all beekeeping organisations.
2008 - today
Professional Apiculture
I co-manage a professional Apiculture with 150 producer colonies specialised in bee breeding and queen production. Our apiculture maintains six distinct selection lines of the Swiss Dark Bee (Apis mellifera mellifera) applying an elaborate selection program using standardised performance testing and instrumental insemination for the improvement of a high quality stock of native honey bees.
2018 - today
International acitivites
SICAMM is the leading European organization committed to the conservation of the dark european honey bee. As a main board member since 2018, and president since 2021 I am proud to spearhead our efforts in connecting all European groups for Apis mellifera mellifera. Our online conference in 2021 and in-person conference in Savoy in 2023 were set to be groundbreaking events. During my presidency I have build SICAMM as the European Federation for the conservation of native biodiversity
Education
2002 - 2006
University of Berne
My PhD thesis focuses on the genetic differentiation and hybridisation of honey bees. Through extensive research and analysis, I have uncovered fascinating insights into the complex genetic makeup of the population post introductions. My findings shed light on the mating behaviour and factors that contribute to the conservation of native honey bees, and have important implications for the conservation and management of the nativ biodiversity of this vital insect.
1998 - 2002
University of Berne
As a Master of Biology with a focus on population genetics, I have conducted extensive research on the postglacial colonisation history of the Lake Geneva basin by the bullhead. Through my studies, I have gained a deep understanding of the genetic patterns and evolutionary processes of the recolonisation of that particular region. I am excited to share my knowledge and insights with others who are interested in this fascinating topic.