Hive Frame Image Annotator (Precision Apiculture Research)

The Precision Apiculture Research Group, headed by Dr. Vladimir Kulyukin in the School of Computing at Utah State University, is seeking a part-time Image Annotator to assist with the curation of FAIRHiveFrames, a large-scale dataset of annotated beehive frame images collected by USDA researchers between 2013 and 2022.

The dataset supports research in artificial intelligence, computer vision, and precision apiculture, with the long-term goal of developing automated methods for biological analysis of digital hive frame imagery.

The successful candidate will work closely with computer scientists and researchers involved in AI-intensive image analysis and biological measurement.

Responsibilities

The annotator will:

• Annotate digital hive frame images using specialized image annotation software;
• Label biologically meaningful categories such as: capped worker brood cells, capped drone brood cells, capped honey cells, pollen cells, uncapped nectar cells, bees, queen cups, and related hive-frame structures;
• Perform careful visual inspection of dense hive frame imagery;
• Participate in periodic annotation review and quality-control sessions;
• Maintain consistency and accuracy across large image collections.

Training in the annotation software and annotation protocol will be provided on site. The annotator will identify and label biologically meaningful hive-frame structures whose interpretation often requires practical beekeeping knowledge and careful visual judgment.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Demonstrable experience in practical beekeeping, apiculture, entomology, or closely related agricultural work;
• Strong attention to detail and ability to perform sustained visual analysis;
• Ability to interpret biologically meaningful structures in dense hive frame imagery;
• Basic computer proficiency.

Experience with beekeeping is especially valuable for interpreting biologically ambiguous regions.

Preferred Qualifications

Preference will be given to applicants with one or more of the following:

• Experience performing hive inspections;
• Familiarity with brood, nectar, pollen, queen structures, and other hive-frame features;
• Background in entomology, biology, agriculture, or related disciplines;
• Prior experience with image annotation or biological imaging datasets;
• Interest in precision apiculture and precision agriculture.