Internship in applied insect behaviour

The primary mission of the lab of the "Association des Producteurs de Noisettes (ANPN)" is to minimise the impact of pathogen disease to the hazelnut quality and to select hazelnut cultivars. The ANPN has a strong experience in biocontrol and is a major actor in pest control in French hazel orchards. The ANPN is a partnership with INRAE since 1995 and the head leader of the European project against stink bugs (REPLIK) and against the nut weevils and the indian meal moths (BALAMITE). The ANPN also works on the evaluation of new hazelnut cultivars and their adaptability to various growing conditions such as planting density, rootstock effect, soil and climate conditions or phenology (OPTIVAR). More details at

In Europe, Curculio nucum is the main pest of hazelnuts. Adults drill shells to feed and/or to deposit eggs. Feeding activities lead to aborted embryos and larvae feed on kernel, in both cases, empty nuts are harvested. Without treatment, 80% of yield can be lost. Unlike the weevil, Halyomorpha halys only feeds from the hazelnut. However, despite treatment, 30% of hazelnuts can be damaged.
Compounds or natural products could disrupt the behaviour of both pests. Candidate products have already been tested in 2024, with promising results. The aim of the study is to (1) evaluate the dose- response of the products, alone or in combination with new products (synergist effect), (2) test the formulations under field conditions, and finally, (3) to assess the putative phytotoxicities of formulations. In addition, the putative anti-oviposition pheromone of C. nucum could be assessed.

Rigor, autonomy, curiosity and critical sense; Knowledge in chemistry and/or in insect ethology would be an asset. Personal car recommended for travel in the countryside