Christopher is an Entomologist who is part of the Tree Health diagnostic and Advisory Service (THDAS), providing an effective, efficient and impartial insect diagnostic and advisory service on tree health.
He holds a BSc (Hons) in Biological Sciences from the University of Exeter and an MSc in Ecological Applications from Imperial College, London, studying a range of topics and completing a dissertation investigating changes in aquatic invertebrate communities following beaver reintroduction.
After graduating, he worked as a Junior Research Scientist in the Invasive Species Management team at CABI, researching and implementing the use of biological control agents (insects, mites and fungi) against invasive aquatic weeds in the UK, such as Floating Pennywort, Japanese Knotweed, Himalayan Balsam, etc.
Now as member of the advisory entomology team at Alice Holt Research Station, Forest Research, Chris supports tree health diagnostics of insect pest species and undertakes associated laboratory and field work. His responsibilities include:
- Responding to tree health enquiries (from TreeAlert).
- Processing and identifying samples of insect pests from THDAS, surveys, findings and border interceptions.
- Undertaking site visits to private properties (chargeable) and Forestry Commission arboreta.
- Attending Observatree training days and trade events.
- Promotion of good biosecurity practices.
Affiliations
- Member of the Royal Society of Biology

Christopher Berman
Forest Research
Alice Holt Lodge
Farnham
Surrey
GU10 4LH
UK
Peer reviewed journal articles
Popular articles:
Blogs/news articles:
Berman, C. (2025). TreeAlert: Enhancing how we monitor tree health. Royal Forestry Society.
Berman, C. (2025). TreeAlert demystified: What happens when you submit a report? Observatree.
Berman, C. (2023). Azolla weevil: 100 years of Azolla biocontrol in the UK. Invasive Species Blog.