Controversy Over Neonicotinoids at ESA Conference

• Entomological Society of America's corporate partnership program, with significant contributions from agrochemical companies like Corteva and Bayer, led to a lack of focus on neonicotinoid research at the 2023 conference.
• The disappearance of scholarly research on neonicotinoids, despite their controversial impact on bee populations, raised concerns among scientists.

Influence of Corporate Sponsors

• Corporate sponsorship, including exclusive partnerships and additional fees for special events, plays a substantial role in shaping conference content and priorities.
• Corporate employees hold positions on the ESA's governing board and serve as editors for prestigious scientific journals.

Shift in Research Focus

• The scientific community's focus on multiple stressors impacting bee colonies has shifted the emphasis from individual factors like neonicotinoids to a more holistic approach.
• Lack of neonicotinoid research from seasoned scholars at the conference suggests a change in the field's research priorities towards broader ecological factors.

Industry Presence and Student Participation

• Industry presence, particularly from agrochemical companies, serves as a pipeline for students to enter corporate careers in entomology.
• The ESA meeting provides networking opportunities for students and industry representatives, potentially influencing career choices and research directions.

Global Perspective on Neonicotinoid Research

• While neonicotinoid research faced minimal representation at the 2023 ESA conference, global interest and funding for studies related to neonicotinoids have been steadily increasing.
• Research shows a significant rise in publications and funding dedicated to neonicotinoid studies, indicating a heightened focus on ecological impacts and international research collaborations.