Dr. Benjamin Oldroyd

Professor

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Biography

Benjamin Oldroyd is a Professor Emeritus at the University of Sydney, where he has made significant contributions to the field of behavioural genetics, particularly in relation to honey bees. He joined the University in 1995, after previous positions at LaTrobe University and the USDA bee lab in Baton Rouge. His research interests focus on the genetics of animal behaviour and social evolution in honey bees, including the mechanisms that maintain social cohesion in bee colonies. Among his notable research projects are studies on the 'anarchistic' bees that provided insights into worker sterility and social dynamics within colonies, and the Cape honey bees of South Africa, which display unique reproductive strategies. Oldroyd has also investigated epigenetic mechanisms in honey bee evolution and has authored a popular science book on DNA and epigenetics published in late 2023. His extensive publication history and numerous funded research projects reflect his commitment to understanding the genetic basis of social behaviour in bees.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

— Present

University of Sydney • Sydney, Australia

Research and teaching in behavioural genetics and animal behaviour, focusing on honey bees.

Requirements for University of Sydney

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:17
Reading
Required:17
Writing
Required:19
Speaking
Required:17
Total
Required:85
PTE
Listening
Required:54
Reading
Required:54
Writing
Required:54
Speaking
Required:54
Overall
Required:61
Prerequisites
A master's degree with a research component or a bachelor's degree with first or second-class honours. Demonstrated research experience and capability.
Application Checklist
  • Academic transcripts
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Research proposal (1000+ words)
  • Two academic referee reports
  • Evidence of residency status
  • Written statement of support from potential supervisor
Specialization Notes

This entry applies to Faculty of Science PhD programs including Departments such as Life and Environmental Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics and Statistics.