The KRTP Team

Matthew Polinsky is the Program Lead for the Manitoba Knowledge and Research Transfer Program (KRTP). With 20 years of apiculture experience, his background is primarily in commercial beekeeping in Saskatchewan, New Zealand, and Australia, as well as urban beekeeping in Montreal. Prior to joining the KRTP in 2023, Matthew contributed to Canadian honey bee research through the Saskatraz breeding project, the University of British Columbia, and Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada. Originally from Saskatchewan, Matthew holds degrees in Human Environment Geography (BA Hons) and English from Concordia University in Montreal.

His recent and ongoing work with the KRTP centres on field-testing a range of methods and products aimed at improving bee health and colony performance, including; RNAi varroa biopesticides, oxalic-acid–glycerin strips, potential viral mitigation via a P. larvae vaccine, surveillance of miticide-resistance in varroa populations, and honey bee feed quality evaluations. As KRTP Program Lead, central to his role is extension services through field support and the development of educational materials and events.

Keziah grew up on a commercial honey farm in Oakbank, Manitoba, and has been passionate about beekeeping from a young age. She has experience working for her family’s business both in honey production and bee package imports.

Keziah holds a degree in Agroecology (BSc) with a minor in entomology from the University of Manitoba. She worked part time for the KRTP in 2025, before joining in spring 2026 as full time research technician.