Dr. Ferhat Ozturk, a newly appointed Sul Ross State University International professor, has been awarded a $2,000 research grant from the Santa Clara Bee Guild in recognition of his contributions to the field of honey research and his dedication to advancing the study of medicinal and biological properties of honey.

The grant will provide crucial support for launching the new department’s honey research initiatives, including the establishment of a Honey Analysis Lab and a beekeeping apiary at the International campus in Eagle Pass.

Dr. Ozturk, who previously led honey research at the University of Texas at San Antonio, shared two virtual presentations this year with the Santa Clara Bee Guild, focusing on the Medicinal Properties of Honey and the Biological Activity of Northern California Honeys. These talks fostered a strong collaboration with the guild, which led to their generous decision to support his ongoing research efforts through their non-profit organization, a surprise to Dr. Ozturk himself.

“Since moving from UTSA, many local beekeepers from Texas, California, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Florida and beyond have asked when I would resume analyzing their honeys for biological activity and medicinal potential,” said Dr. Ozturk. “This grant from the Santa Clara Bee Guild will be invaluable as we establish the Honey Analysis Lab and apiary here at SRSU International.”

The research initiatives at Sul Ross aim to explore the health benefits of honey, evaluate its biological activities, and support local beekeeping communities through rigorous scientific study.

For more information, contact ferhat.ozturk@sulross.edu.

Photo: Dr. Ozturk at the HONEY Pathway Apiary at the University of Texas at San Antonio.