I am a PhD candidate in the Flies of Economic Significance Research Group within the Department of Zoology and Entomology at the University of Pretoria. My research centres on employing molecular techniques to gain a deeper understanding of the population genetics and physiology of Tephritid fruit flies (Insecta: Diptera), which are crucial to fruit production in South Africa. The findings from my studies will provide the industry with effective pest management strategies that can significantly reduce reliance on pesticides and enhance the implementation of post-harvest practices.