Dr. Jamie Ellis Named New Honeybee Program Leader
The University of Georgia appointed a new leader to head its long-running honeybee research program.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in People
Dr. Jamie Ellis has officially taken over as the leader of the University of Georgia honeybee program. He replaces Dr. Keith Delaplane, who led the program for 34 years.
Why it matters
The leadership change marks a significant transition for a program with decades of established research and institutional history. It brings a new strategic direction to a major regional center for apicultural study.
Dr. Keith Delaplane leaves behind a 34-year tenure, while Dr. Jamie Ellis returns to the University of Georgia after spending 20 years away from the state.
The players
Dr. Jamie Ellis
He is the newly appointed leader of the University of Georgia honeybee program and a former developer of the honeybee program at the University of Florida.
Dr. Keith Delaplane
He is the outgoing leader of the University of Georgia honeybee program who held the position for 34 years.
The details
Dr. Jamie Ellis accepted the leadership appointment for the program after previously building a similar honeybee program at the University of Florida. As an alumnus of the University of Georgia, Ellis now returns to his alma mater to oversee its academic and research initiatives.
Timeline
The University of Georgia announced the leadership change on September 24, 2026.
Market Landscape
The change in leadership represents a major shift in academic and research management for the institution. This transition moves the department away from the 34-year tenure of Dr. Keith Delaplane, potentially realigning its competitive standing in apicultural science.
The new leadership appointment signals potential updates to the research and extension services provided by the university. Local beekeepers and stakeholders may see adjustments to the program's public outreach and educational resources in the coming year.
The takeaway
The appointment of a new program leader provides an opportunity for the institution to re-evaluate its long-term goals for pollinator health. Success in this field often depends on balancing established research traditions with emerging agricultural demands.
Further reading
Learn more about local leadership shifts in People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by RFD-TV.
