Welcome to scigest - podcast-sized servings of digestible science from the world of Plant & Food Research! Scigest is a podcast channel hosted by scientists at Plant & Food Research in New Zealand who are passionate about communicating their science to New Zealanders and the world, as well as helping science students in their journey to a science career. Our scientists are at the heart of food production, supply and security, contributing to human health and wellbeing as well as social and economic stability. Hear how our research is making a difference to food production - from the development of new cultivars and new foods, to bioprotection science and creating environmentally sustainable production systems for plant and seafood crops. If you are interested in a career in science, listen to our scientists' stories, including their tips and tricks, and discover the many options available for a science career. Any questions or suggestions can be emailed to the scigest team at [email protected]. To be able to see all of our podcasts and get to see some of our podcasters and interviewees please see our scigest website at www.plantandfood.com/scigest
The Climate Action Campus (PPF)
People | Planet | Food - Roger Robson-Williams speaks with Catherine Leeper, a Learning Advisor at Climate Action Campus Ōtautahi, about the importance of empowering rangatahi (young people) to take action on climate change. Catherine talks about her farming roots, her journey to Aotearoa New Zealand, and the initiatives of the Climate Action Campus, particularly in educating students about sustainability and promoting fairer, healthier, and environmentally restorative futures. They explore the importance of this for improving the mental health of our children and teenagers. Catherine also shares some of the awesome sustainability hacks she’s practising in her family life. To learn more please see: www.climateaction.school.nz. To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra links on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest
9/16/2024 • 0
Anna Kokeny: starting with a solitary bee (SLFM)
Aotearoa New Zealand has many native solitary bees, but not much is known about them. In this Scigest episode, newly-minted podcaster and apiculture scientist James Sainsbury speaks to entomologist Anna Kokeny about her research on our little-known native bees. They also discuss Anna's career journey and share tips for budding scientists. Anna is a dedicated science communicator and has joined the scigest team as our podcaster based at our Hawkes Bay site.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra links on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest
9/9/2024 • 0
Avoiding planetary boundary overshoot with Kate Meyer (PPF)
In this episode of the People | Planet | Food podcast series, I chat with Kate Meyer, Founder and CEO of the Planetary Accounting Network (PAN). This small not-for-profit organisation from Wānaka is dedicated to translating cutting-edge earth systems science into actionable plans that help individuals, businesses, and governments operate within global environmental limits. Kate shares her journey from avid skier to the creator of Planetary Accounting, a scientifically robust method for understanding how to live within our fair share of the planet’s finite resources. We also explore the potential of 'Planetary Facts' labels on food and other products and discuss how this New Zealand start-up is impacting policy discussions across Europe.
To learn more see: www.planetaryaccounting.org/planetary-facts.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra links on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest
9/2/2024 • 0
Beginners guide to gene technologies (DS)
Over the last 25 years, genetic techniques have rapidly evolved. In this episode of Scigest, scientists Blue Plunkett and Dr Revel Drummond provide a brief guide to the latest gene technologies. What is a null segregant? What is CRISPR-Cas9? How do these cutting-edge tools differ from earlier GMO technologies? Note: Since we recorded this Dame Juliet Gerrard who is mentioned in the podcast has left the role of Prime Minister's Chief Science Advisor.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra links on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest
8/18/2024 • 0
Rob Agnew: Changing weather into wine (SLFM)
For nearly 40 years, retiring scientist Rob Agnew has dedicated his career to logging and analysing the changing weather patterns in the Marlborough region. In this episode of Scigest, our new podcaster, Dion Mundy, sits down with Rob Agnew to explore his impactful career from his work in protecting the wine industry through meteorological trend studies, forecasting, and examining the long-term effects of climate change. Rob also shares insights from his role as the author of VineFacts, a crucial resource for wine growers since its inception in 1997. Tune in for an engaging conversation about the intersection of science and viticulture.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra links on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest
8/4/2024 • 0
An irresistible virgin redback spider lure (BDI)
Redback spiders have established populations in Central Otago and Taranaki, posing a threat to human health and taonga native species such as the critically endangered Cromwell chafer beetle.
We talk to Chemist Dr Andrew Twidle, who is leading the development of a pheromone tool to eradicate these invasive redback spiders, the first attempt in the world to control pest spiders using pheromones. The project is supported by Lincoln University, local iwi, and the Department of Conservation.
Find more of our biosecurity, disease, and insect science Scigest podcasts on our website: www.plantandfood.com/en-nz/biosecurity-disease-and-insect-science.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra links on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest
7/18/2024 • 0
The future urban consumer - part 2 (SITK)
Join us for the latest insights from a comprehensive global study on consumer preferences, following up on our initial Future Urban Consumer podcast from October last year. Understanding consumer attitudes is crucial when developing new food technologies and farming systems. Plant & Food Research's Future Urban Consumer programme delves into how consumers in Aotearoa New Zealand, and international markets perceive emerging food technologies and the factors influencing these perceptions. In this episode, Hilary Ireland interviews social scientist Brian Lin to explore recent findings from the research, highlighting the benefits of combining quantitative and qualitative approaches.
Listen to the first part of this series at http://www.plantandfood.com/article/the-future-urban-consumer, or find it in your podcast provider's Scigest list from October 13, 2023.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra links on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest
7/4/2024 • 0
PPF: Exploring agritech with Brendan O’Connell
In this episode of People | Planet | Food, Roger Robson-Williams speaks with Brendan O’Connell, Chief Executive of AgritechNZ, to discuss the role of agritech in creating a healthier, fairer, and more environmentally friendly food system. Brendan shares his perspective on what agritech is, how it can help, and how AgritechNZ supports a diverse range of businesses operating in this area. Together, they delve into the potential of agritech, the challenges of its adoption, and the potential unintended consequences if it's not used wisely. As always with People | Planet | Food, they also explore what we all can do to ensure we have healthy people living on a healthy planet and consuming nutritious food.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra links on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest
6/17/2024 • 0
SLFM: Dion Mundy: new tech for the vine doctor
New technologies are essential in helping scientists and growers combat vine diseases in vineyards. This week, podcaster and data scientist Tom Moore interviews vine doctor Dion Mundy about his latest research on plant disease monitoring, disease identification, and modelling for future climate changes. Dion was one of our first interviews on Scigest five years ago, and we are delighted he has joined the Scigest podcast team and will be recording some of the exciting science stories emerging from our Marlborough (viticulture) and Motueka (berries, hops, and kiwifruit) sites. To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra links on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest
6/6/2024 • 0
FTS: Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest flume tank
Plant & Food Research's Nelson site is home to Aotearoa New Zealand's largest flume tank, an innovative facility that allows scientists to test and develop new technologies in both simulated open ocean and controlled laboratory environments.
In this week's podcast, Julie Blommaert sits down with fellow scientists Suzy Black and Louise Kregting to discuss the exciting research applications of the new flume tank. Their conversation covers a range of topics, including advancements in aquatic design, open ocean aquaculture, sustainable seafood capture, and harvesting technology.
This episode is Julie’s third podcast with the Nelson team, her last interview being with Suzy on mobile aquaculture in February 2024.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra links on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest
5/23/2024 • 0
PPF: Future-Fit: Navigating Sustainability with Martin Rich
In this episode of the People | Planet | Food podcast series, host Roger Robson-Williams talks to Martin Rich, a former investment banker turned Chief Executive of the UK’s Future-Fit Foundation. Martin shares his journey from international finance to earth systems science and doughnut economics and explains why he now leads a sustainability charity.
Roger and Martin discuss what it means for organisations to become future-fit and why this is important for the food system. They also explore what we all can do to ensure we have healthy people living on a healthy planet and consuming nutritious food.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra information on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest.
5/13/2024 • 0
PPF: Food. Who's helping?
What would it take to make the global food system healthier, fairer, and more environmentally restorative? I am delighted to start my People | Planet | Food series in conversation with two remarkable leaders from opposite sides of the planet working on exactly this issue. In this episode I am speaking to Sue Pritchard, the Chief Executive of the UK’s Food, Farming and Countryside Commission, and Angela Clifford, the Chief Executive of Eat New Zealand. Sue also has an organic livestock farm in Wales and Angela has a permaculture farm in North Canterbury. We unpack what their organisations are doing to connect citizens with where their food comes from. We discuss emerging threats to food system resilience. And we explore what individual citizens can do to ensure we have healthy people living on a healthy planet and eating healthy food.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra information on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest
4/29/2024 • 0
SLFM: Roger Robson-Williams: A man on a mission
Roger Robson-Williams, Chief Sustainability Officer at Plant & Food Research, joins Scigest podcast host Rebecca Bloomer to discuss his scientific journey and interest in the future prosperity of food production in Aotearoa. In their conversation, Roger introduces his upcoming podcast, People, Planet, Food, which will feature discussions with individuals from various fields striving to create a more environmentally sustainable, economically inclusive, and socially just food system. Stay tuned for the release of the first episode of People, Planet, Food in the coming weeks.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra links on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest
4/11/2024 • 0
SLFM: Dr James Sainsbury - Buzzworthy science
Working with bees, and in local body politics means you are always at risk of being stung at some stage, but that hasn’t stopped our latest guest, apiculture scientist Dr James Sainsbury taking up the challenge. In this podcast Andrew Dare speaks to James, who specialises in honey bee health and pollination, about his interesting and diverse career so far - from working with Kaka parrots in Wellington, bumble bees in London Zoo, supporting science involving at-risk communities in Africa, along with a stint being a stay at home dad. James also has another life as councillor for the Matamata Piako District Council for the past 7 years and recently has taken up the challenge to be our podcaster at our Lincoln site. He clearly likes to be a busy man! James’s brother is comedian Tom Sainsbury and his video to support James that Andrew mentioned in this podcast, can be found here: www.facebook.com/jsainsbury/videos/373247890273858
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra information on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest
4/1/2024 • 0
SITK: The New Zealand Food Composition Database
Knowing what’s in the food you consume is important – to help with that, scientists at Plant & Food Research are responsible for managing a database containing more than 2,700 foods commonly consumed in Aotearoa. In this episode we hear more about what the New Zealand Food Composition Database is and how to use it from Dr Carolyn Lister, leader of the Food and Health Information team at Plant & Food Research. The database is very easy to use with a variety of search options including searching on a specific nutrient. This episode also covers serving sizes, ultra-processed foods and the importance of national nutritional surveys. To view the database see: www.foodcomposition.co.nz.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra links and information on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages www.plantandfood.com/scigest.
3/14/2024 • 0
FTS: Mobile aquaculture
New Zealand’s ocean space is many times larger than our land area and presents an enormous opportunity to expand into sustainable open ocean aquaculture for finfish and shellfish. In this week’s podcast, Julie Blommaert speaks to scientist Suzy Black about mobile aquaculture, an innovative new system for farming fish that has massive potential for the future of seafood production, at a time when the world’s reliance on seafood as a protein source is set to continue growing.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra information on podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest
2/26/2024 • 0
SLFM: Dr Andrew Allan: A life in genes
Today on Scigest, we speak to Dr Andrew Allan, Principal Scientist at Plant & Food Research and Professor in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Auckland. Andy was recently elected as a Fellow to the Academy of the Royal Society Te Apārangi in recognition of more than 30 years of research in plant genetics, and has featured on the 2022 and 2023 Clarivate Highly-Cited Researchers list compiled from the world’s scientists. Andy talks about his science journey, including his insights on the evolution of genetic technologies and their potential to support sustainable food production.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra information on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages www.plantandfood.com/scigest
2/8/2024 • 0
SIS: Crossing Borders: Embracing A Science Career in New Zealand
From language barriers to cultural adjustments, international students and professionals face unique challenges when relocating to a new country to pursue their science careers. In this podcast episode, Jay Jayaraman, hailing from Fiji, chats with fellow scientists Luna Hasna from Bangladesh, Liz Florez from Peru, and Tina Wang from China. Together, they share their experiences, highlighting the challenges and the incredible opportunities of immigrating to Aotearoa New Zealand.
To see links to the support groups as mentioned in this podcast and to view our full catalogue of podcasts please go to our Scigest pages www.plantandfood.com/scigest
1/25/2024 • 0
SLFM: Jolon Dyer: From introvert to science leader
Science careers can take many paths, some planned and some not. This week Tom Moore speaks to Jolon Dyer who is the GM Science Services at Plant & Food Research about his fascinating science journey from working on innovative cancer drug research, to teaching English in Japan, to then looking at the science around wool fibres before moving into leadership roles. Jolon also discusses his self-development from a self-confessed introverted nerd to someone that can inspire students through his teaching and mentoring.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra information on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages www.plantandfood.com/scigest
12/19/2023 • 0
SLFM: Dr David Teulon Biosecurity and beyond
Today on Scigest we speak to Dr David Teulon - an entomologist and Principal Scientist at Plant & Food Research. During his 30-plus year career in science, Dr Teulon has championed sustainable pest management and biosecurity research through his efforts as a researcher and in his role as the Director of Better Border Biosecurity or B3. In 2023 David was presented with the Plant & Food Research Lifetime Achievement Award. See video link: https://youtu.be/7cJ8pFJruQI?feature=shared
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra information on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages www.plantandfood.com/scigest
12/12/2023 • 0
BIOSECURITY: Fresh findings on beneficial insects
Scientists studying the pollination of native plants have been surprised by the large number of insect visitors contributing to pollination, which bodes well for those planting native species on their farms. This week podcaster and scientist Dr Tom Moore speaks to Entomologist Brad Howlett who provides an update on this research project. The research findings helps to confirm the importance of native plantings in encouraging pollinating insects, and allows us to design plantings based on the best insect species to attract for any particular farm. This Biodiversity for Beneficial Insects research has been funded through a Ministry for Primary Industries’ Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund (SFFF).
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra information on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages www.plantandfood.com/scigest
11/27/2023 • 0
SLS: Working with wētā
In Marlborough’s Awatere Valley ground wētā are a common sight on some vineyards, burrowing in soft irrigated soil beneath the vines. Winemakers are keen to find ways to co-exist with this taonga species, including looking for sustainable solutions that could help prevent wētā from feasting on the tender foliage on grape vines during the crucial spring budburst. This week scientists and podcaster Nicola Sullivan speaks to crop protection entomologist Jessica Vereijessen about progress so far on this project.
The project is funded by the New Zealand Wine Futures Fund. The NZWFF is funded through New Zealand Winegrowers levies and project managed by the Bragato Research Institute (BRI).
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra information for some of our podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest
11/16/2023 • 0
SB: Starfish powered skincare
Scientists are working to find to a use for 1000s of unwanted starfish, which have been decimating mussel beds in Bay of Plenty’s Ōhiwa Harbour. In partnership with mana whenua, research institutes Waikato University, the Cawthron Institute and Plant & Food Research are working on a project that involves harvesting the starfish and using them to produce an anti-ageing skin cream. In this podcast Scigester Julie Blommaert speaks to Plant & Food Research’s Dr Mathew Cumming (Team Leader, Marine Biopolymer Science) who, along with the Cawthron Institute’s Matt Miller, found that starfish are a good source of marine collagen, which is a high value ingredient in cosmetics.
See more podcasts from us at https://www.plantandfood.com/scigest
10/31/2023 • 0
SITK: The future urban consumer
When developing new food technologies and farming systems, it is critical to consider consumer attitudes towards these technologies. Plant & Food Research’s Future Urban Consumer programme has been digging deeper into how consumers in both New Zealand and our overseas export markets think and feel about different emerging food technologies, and the drivers behind those attitudes. In this podcast Hilary Ireland speaks to three members of the Future Urban Consumer team about this research and some of the initial findings.
10/12/2023 • 0
SLFM: Cultivating Innovation: 45 Years of Transforming Horticulture with Dr Jim Walker
Over his 45-year career, Dr Jim Walker has driven significant change in the horticultural sector, using his scientific expertise to develop innovative tools and techniques for managing pests and diseases, which have helped position Aotearoa New Zealand as a competitive and top-quality fruit-growing nation.
Scigest host Rebecca Bloomer talks to Jim about the pivotal moments and milestones of his illustrious career and the challenges and the breakthroughs that have defined his legacy.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra information on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages www.plantandfood.com/scigest
9/28/2023 • 0
SLFM: Alex Leonard: charting a new course
Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of marine science with Phd scientist Alex Leonard and new Scigest podcast host, Julie Blommaert. Learn how Alex's journey into marine science paved the way for her current work on fish collagen.
This is Julie Blommaert's debut epsiode as a host of Scigest podcast!
Based at our seafood science site in Nelson, Julie will bring more fascinating interviews on seafood science.
9/14/2023 • 0
FTL: Recovering from Cyclone Gabrielle
Cyclone Gabrielle was a devastating event that caused widespread damage to the pipfruit growing region of the Hawkes Bay. Today Rebecca Bloomer speaks to scientist Jim Walker and research orchard manager Peter Welch about the short and long term effects of the cyclone to our orchards and the whole industry.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra information on topics covered please go to our Scigest pages at www.plantandfood.com/scigest
8/31/2023 • 0
SLFM: New materials for new beginnings
In this episode we meet Dr. Roshan Khadka, who is working on a new way to power wearable health devices. Roshan's science journey started in his hometown of Kathmandu, Nepal before a PhD funded by Plant & Food Research led him to the University of Auckland in 2015. His work on sensor development contributed to the success of Plant & Food Research spin-out company, ScentianBio. Now, five years on Roshan is aiming to make waves in his new research space and also finding ways to celebrate and honour his home country and the special ties it shares with New Zealand.
8/17/2023 • 0
SLFM: Beyond the desk – making an impact through science leadership
In this Scigest episode we speak to Plant & Food Research’s new chief executive, Mark Piper. Mark joined the organisation three months ago after a 30 year stint at Fonterra, where he held leadership roles locally and in the US and Japan. Mark shares a bit about his background, his journey into science leadership as well as his first impressions of Plant & Food Research and his aspirations for the company. For more information and podcasts see our Scigest page on: www.plantandfood.com/scigest
8/3/2023 • 0
SLFM: Diving into seafood science
In this podcast episode we meet Julie Bloomaert, a Post-doctoral Scientist at Plant & Food Research. Julie works in the Seafood Production group - with a background in biology and genetics she's aiming to improve snapper for aquaculture by understanding and utilizing their genetic traits. Julie's scientific curiosity was partly sparked by a field trip organised by one of her high school teachers and it led her to pursue a PhD in evolutionary biology in Austria. Having lived in many different countries, Julie embraces new experiences and will soon be joining the Sigest team as a new Sigest podcaster.
7/23/2023 • 0
SLFM: Moving forwards no matter the hurdles
A journey into a science career can be fraught with many challenges along the way. Today we speak to Luna Hasna about her inspiring and multi hurdled journey - from a young girl in Bangladesh with a passion for science, to getting married and moving to Aotearoa New Zealand and how owning and running a kebab shop in Auckland eventually led to her dream career, working in the plant pathogens department at Plant & Food Research. To see some of Luna’s artwork see her Instagram feed: @lunascollection_45. For further Scigest podcasts please see our Scigest pages at www.plantandfood.com/scigest.
7/6/2023 • 0
SIS: Finding Funding for ECR's
Early Career Researchers (ECRs) struggle to fund their research. With very few funding opportunities within New Zealand and high competition for them, most ECRs feel unprepared and uninformed about how and where to find funding at this critical stage of their careers. This episode aims to highlight funding opportunities in Aotearoa, with a specific focus on Rutherford fellowships and Marsden funds, and includes tips and tricks on how to be successful – tailored to ECRs. Links to ECR funding sites can be found on this podcasts page on our Scigest site: www.plantandfood.com/scigest.
6/22/2023 • 0
FTL: Indoor farming - future or fad?
Indoor farming might be part of the solution to the global food security crisis, but how ready are we for this change in the way we produce fruit and vegetables? Scigest host Rebecca Bloomer sits down with Samantha Baldwin to chat about the highs and lows of indoor and vertical farming, what challenges this ‘new’ type of farming still faces, and what New Zealand is doing in this space.
6/12/2023 • 0
ID: A legacy of international impact
Plant Pathologist Dr Bob Fullerton has improved horticulture and changed lives in developing countries for nearly 50 years.
Bob sat down with Scigest while he was back in Aotearoa New Zealand to discuss his extensive and rewarding career. He talks about how his experience of growing up on a Queensland pineapple farm led him into international development work and how science can create opportunities to reduce poverty and improve lives.
Links to learn more about the Dragon Fruit Network https://dfnet.fftc.org.tw/Page/Home.aspx?v=1382263207 or to watch an episode of Shamba Shape Up on avocados and Phytophthora root rot disease https://youtu.be/kWy4ezP2qzA.
www.plantandfood.com/scigest
5/24/2023 • 0
SIS: Passing the PhD: how to defend your thesis
Imagine this – you have two hours to prove to a room of experts that your PhD research was good enough to land you a doctorate. Daunting, right? In this episode, Dr Young Yan Peng (Angel) joins ex-PhD students and newly minted Drs Erin Stroud and Hilary Ireland to chat about how they prepared for and successfully defended their theses. You’ll hear a play-by-play audio diary of Erin’s defence process and reflections from Erin and Hilary on the run-up to the examination day.
If you are doing a PhD, this is the episode for you! www.plantandfood.com/scigest
5/4/2023 • 0
SLFM: Try before you buy
Science careers can be diverse. How do you pick which path to follow? Starting out with a series of contract roles, Plant Physiology Scientist and PhD student Kris Kramer-Walter took the try-before-you-by approach.
Scigest host Erin Stroud chats to Kris about his journey into a science career and the diverse range of roles he has had so far. From working in the laboratory to sifting through land purchase agreements to fieldwork in remote parts of the New Zealand bush, Kris shares his insights into how to craft to perfect career for you. www.plantandfood.com/en-nz/scigest
4/25/2023 • 0
SIS: The importance of mentoring
In today’s episode, scigest host Erin Stroud chats to her personal mentor Dr Priya Subramanian, Plant & Food Research’s Dr Jill Stanley, and Student Support Adviser for Māori and Pacific students Lizzie Tafili about the importance of mentoring. Acting as a how-to guide, this episode will help you find (and be) a good mentor, no matter what stage of your career you are at. For more podcasts from us: https://www.plantandfood.com/en-nz/scigest
4/10/2023 • 0
SIS: A summer in science
Our host Erin Stroud chats to students Tom Parekowhai and Rāwinia Wikaira as they recount their summers in science. Tom and Rāwinia cover the types of projects summer students can get involved in at Plant & Food Research - spanning from protecting taonga trees to modelling apple orchards. Covering the highs and lows of working in science and the importance of creating safe space for Māori students, this episode is your go-to guide to being (or hosting) a summer student. For more podcasts from us head to https://www.plantandfood.com/en-nz/scigest.
3/23/2023 • 0
BIOSECURITY: Invasion-of-the-Fall-armyworm
While an invasion of creepy crawlies may be the stuff of nightmares, it could be a reality for New Zealand growers and gardening hobbyists. Fall armyworm has recently made its way to our shores and, under the right conditions, has the potential to wipe out crop plants overnight. In today’s episode, we chat to Frances MacDonald and Jordan Pickering about why Fall armyworm is a threat to Aotoearoa New Zealand, the role of scientists and individuals in biosecurity threat events, and what you should do if you spot one in your backyard. Thanks to B3 for supporting this MPI/PFR Summer Studentship.
For further information on the Fall Army Worm see: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/biosecurity/major-pest-and-disease-threats/fall-armyworm/
Thanks to B3 for supporting Jordan’s MPI/Plant & Food Research Summer Studentship.
3/13/2023 • 0
ID: A new horizon for dragon fruit
Scientists from Plant & Food Research have been working with partners at the Southern Horticultural Research Institute in Viet Nam over the last decade on a joint dragon fruit breeding programme and have developed three new varieties. VentureFruit™ has joined the collaboration with exclusive global commercialisation rights to the first three varieties from the programme. Dr Satish Kumar chats to Scigest host Erin Stroud about his work in the dragon fruit breeding programme and how a decade of research resulted in a new horizon for dragon fruit. The new varieties offer appealing fruit characteristics while addressing some of the major pest and disease challenges faced by dragon fruit growers in Viet Nam. For more podcasts from us head to https://www.plantandfood.com/en-nz/scigest
2/13/2023 • 0
SLS: Cricket Calls
Nighttime cricket calls might be the soundtrack of summer, but for farmers, it's not a noise they want to hear. In this Scigest episode, entomologist Sophie Hunt and Northland kumara grower Warwick Simpson talk about how black crickets are a pest for farmers, damaging crops and pastures; and their acoustic cricket call trap, an innovative new tool to help reduce the number of these pests.
2/2/2023 • 0
SLFM: Straight into science
Scientist and Scigest podcaster Rebecca Bloomer talks fellow scientist Tom Moore about her journey into science, asking interesting biological questions, how curiosity can drive science communications, and the importance of good support networks. In 2022, Rebecca was recognised with the Plant & Food Research Early Career Researcher award at the Science New Zealand Awards.
1/19/2023 • 0
SS: Filling The Void - A colourful project
The multi-disciplinary Filling the Void project received the Science New Zealand Team Award for their work in laying the foundation for a new breeding programme for Aotearoa. Their goal was to develop a novel berry that would combine the commercial benefits of blueberries with the colour-filled flesh of bilberries. This new hybrid berry would contain five-fold the health-promoting anthocyanins of blueberries – a true super berry with exciting potential for Aotearoa. Hilary Ireland talks to scientist Richard Espley about the importance of fruit colour and how this research will allow the breeding team to develop new fruits with added health benefits.
12/15/2022 • 0
SB: Making the most of our fish
Achieving total utilisation and maximum value from a catch is an significant goal for the seafood industry. In this podcast, we discuss Cyber Physical Seafood Systems (Cyber-Marine), a new Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) funded research programme aimed at achieving 100% utilisation and maximised value for all harvested wild and aquacultured seafood.
Scigest host Andrew Dare speaks to scientist Dr Susan Marshall, Plant & Food Research, and Dr Owen Catchpole, Chief Engineer at Callaghan Innovation, about the project and the challenges of extracting specific compounds out of whole or parts of fish.
12/5/2022 • 0
SLFM: A collection of virus-related moments
Passionate plant virologist Associate Professor Robin MacDiarmid talks to Scigest host Erin Stroud about how her family sparked her interest in a science career, the devastating loss of her mother, and personal strengths, determination and appreciation of life. Robin and Erin discuss cultural and social responsibilities of science, how viruses are incredibly misunderstood, and the importance of home and engaging with your community.
11/17/2022 • 0
SLFM: Sniffing out a successful technology
Scientist Blue Plunkett speaks to Andrew Kralicek, Chief Technology Officer of Scentian Bio, about biosensors that can detect volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) – or more simply, smells, in liquid and air.
The ground-breaking technology has broad applications across a number of industries, from medical and health applications to food production. Andrew also chats about life as a CTO in a start-up company and the progress made since our previous interview with Andrew five years ago. Note: at the time of recording, Andrew could not disclose Scentian Bio have just been awarded a US $1.7m grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to accelerate the development of the detection of human diseases like tuberculosis and malaria. For more podcasts from us, head to: www.plantandfood.com/en-nz/scigest
11/3/2022 • 0
SLFM: Being a bioinformatician
Bioinformatics is cutting-edge science that applies tools of computation and analysis to capture and understand biological data. It is an interdisciplinary field which harnesses computer science, mathematics, physics, and biology. Scientist and podcaster Blue Plunket speaks to Bioinformatician Amali Thrimawithana about her journey into science and her fascinating work with two taonga species, manuka and snapper. For more podcasts from us head to: www.plantandfood.co.nz/scigest
10/20/2022 • 0
BIOSECURITY: Benefits of beneficial biodiversity
There are enormous benefits that Aotearoa New Zealand’s insect fauna can play in pollinating crops and controlling insect pests. Scientist Brad Howlett speaks to Scigest host Nicola Sullivan about designing native plantings to increase the abundance of native pollinators and natural enemies. By returning native plants, animals and insects, we can create more productive, resilient farms, bringing economic, environmental and social benefits to New Zealand. Farmers can help Brad's research into the benefits of beneficial biodiversity by completing this short survey: surveymonkey.com/r/W6FJDGZ
10/6/2022 • 0
SLFM: Where does the data go
Wanting to see the bigger picture and understand what knowledge could be gained from the data he was collecting opened up a whole new world of data science for scientist Jian Liu. Jian chats to statistical scientist and new Scigest host Tom Moore about his journey from soil sampling and field science into the world of data science, the advantages of the New Zealand tertiary education system, and the importance of good mentors.
9/22/2022 • 0
SLFM: David Hughes: leadership learnings
Plant & Food Research CEO David Hughes chats with Scigest host Hilary Ireland about his journey science leadership, the big opportunities in the future of food, sustainability and how science can create a better world for everyone. Listen to the Future of Food episode mentioned in this podcast here: www.plantandfood.com/en-nz/article/future-of-food. For more podcasts from us head to: www.plantandfood.co.nz/scigest
9/8/2022 • 0
SB: Creating New Zealand-made aquafeeds for sustainable aquaculture
Fish are not simple to feed. Their nutritional requirements vary hugely depending on the species, life stage and growing environment. Most of the aquafeeds currently used in Aotearoa New Zealand is imported and being able to produce New Zealand-made aquafeeds from locally produced ingredients is crucial for the sustainable growth of marine fish aquaculture in Aotearoa. Food and Bioproduct Technologist Katrina Fletcher chats to Scigest host Andre Dare about the exciting but complex process of exploring and designing locally produced aquafeeds. Watch our video on sustainable aquaculture in the open ocean here: https://youtu.be/o6W9ht4DPB8
8/25/2022 • 0
SLFM: A curious journey
Following his passion, curiosity and interest led statistical scientist Tom Moore into a varied science career. Fellow scientist and Scigest host Susan Thomson speaks to Tom as he recounts his transition from freshwater ecology and parasitic vampire freshwater mussels to applying data techniques to get the most out of the information collected by scientists.
To learn more about Tom's research head to his website www.mooreecology.com
8/11/2022 • 0
SS: The Future Orchard
Improving efficiency of fruit production on the minimum amount of land while reducing inputs on the orchard is vital for the longevity and sustainability of the fruit tree industries around the world. Scientist and podcaster Rebecca Bloomer speaks to fruit crops physiology scientist, Ben van Hooijdonk about a new system called Future Orchard Production Systems or FOPS that fulfils many of these requirements with impressive yield results so far. Here is a short video explaining the FOPS system: https://youtu.be/4kGuMkHjS6E and this videos shows Ben recently harvesting fruit from our FOPS orchard: https://youtu.be/C4-eNrMFRzE
7/28/2022 • 0
SMAS: Future of Food
How we grow, buy, eat and even value our food is changing.
In our 100th Scigest podcast Ian Proudfoot, KPMG Global Head of Agribusiness, and our CEO David Hughes discuss the future of food, how value creation and different technologies and approaches can help create a sustainable, resilient food system that works for everyone.
7/13/2022 • 0
SIS: From Gumboots to Boardroom
In this episode of our Starting In Science series, host Erin Stroud chats to plant-pathogen scientist Dr Nick Waipara (Rongowhakaata and Ngāti Ruapani ki Turanga), entomologist Dr Dave Bellamy, and Dr Andrew Kralicek, founder and CTO of Scentian Bio, about how diverse a science career can be, potential career pathways and pivot points, and how to move from gumboots to the boardroom and back again. For more podcasts from us head to https://www.plantandfood.com/en-nz/scigest
6/30/2022 • 0
SS: Adding value to New Zealand wheat
Wheat is the most widely grown commercial crop in the world, yet flour and bread disappeared from supermarket shelves during the lockdown. Wheat breeder Jamie Macalister chats to Scigest host Rebecca Bloomer about researching genomics in wheat, looking at reducing gluten peptides that stimulate an immune response, and how building resilience in our local grain economy would strengthen food security given the current volatility with global supply chains. See more podcasts from us at https://www.plantandfood.com/en-nz/scigest
6/16/2022 • 0
SLFM: A taste for change
Yuki Wadamori, a scientist in our Food & Bioproducts Technology team, sunk her teeth into a new career after working as a dentist in Japan. She chats to Scigest host Nicola Sullivan about her interesting career path and how her love of food led to a career combining dentistry and science. For more podcasts from us go to https://www.plantandfood.com/en-nz/scigest
6/2/2022 • 0
DS: A leap into data science
Data and science have always gone together. With the evolution of fast processing, the ability to rapidly analyse data has transformed.
In the first episode of our new data science series, host Hillary Ireland speaks to Linley Jesson, Harris Lin and Mark Wohlers, three of our team leading the way in the data science evolution. The panel explains some of the terminology and discusses what data science is and how their work impacts the exciting future of this technology. For more podcasts from us go to www.plantandfood.com/en-nz/scigest.
5/19/2022 • 0
SLFM: Always science
This week, Jay Jayaraman chats to scientist Mark Anderson about his fascinating and varied science career. They discuss how getting get your foot in the door was very different in the 1980s, fungal pathogen science, including early research on cabbage tree sudden decline and phytoplasmas. Plus, Mark's experience scriptwriting for Shortland Street! For more podcasts from us go to https://www.plantandfood.com/en-nz/scigest
5/5/2022 • 0
SIS: Talk science
Being a scientist isn’t all just lab work! Communicating your research to other scientists, industry, and the public is integral. Host Erin Stroud speaks with Maree McEntee, a social scientist and lecturer from The University of Auckland; Emma Timewell, Communications Manager; Brent Clothier, Principal Scientist and President of the Royal Society Te Apārangi and Brian Cutting, Apiculture Scientist from Plant & Food Research about communicating science to all parts of the community and the importance of engagement and active listening. For more podcasts from us go to https://www.plantandfood.com/en-nz/scigest
4/21/2022 • 0
SLFM: Meet the new Scigesters
Get to know more about the newest members of our Scigest team - Hilary Ireland, Jay Jayaraman, Erin Stroud, Nicola Sullivan, Rebecca Bloomer and Ria Rebstock - their science work, and their thoughts on the importance of science communication.
4/7/2022 • 0
SLFM: Master of hops
New Zealand has some of the most sought-after hops in the world. Dr Ron Beatson chats to Scigest host Nicola Sullivan about leading the research and development of hop breeding and genetics at Plant & Food Research for 38 years; the production of unique cultivars with a range of flavours that brewers love, and what it's like to have hop variety named after you!
3/24/2022 • 0
SIS: Science Women
In the second instalment of our Starting in Science series, co-hosts and PhD students Erin Stroud and Hilary Ireland chat to a star-studded line up of panelists to celebrate International Women’s Day. Joined by Dr Jill Stanley, Dr Kieren Arthur, and Dr Sarah Moss, we chat about how to be yourself in science, avoiding stereotype traps, making sure women have a seat and voice at the table, the importance of supportive colleagues and good mentors, and other tips and tricks for women, and people who identify as women, starting in science.
3/7/2022 • 0
SIS: Beginners guide to a science career
Have you ever wondered how to start your science career? In the first episode of our Starting in Science series, hosts PhD student Erin Stroud and Scientist Jay Jayaraman ask the experts, Dr Richard Newcomb (Plant & Food Research) and Dr Jo Putterill (University of Auckland), how to take the first, second, and third steps towards an exciting new career in science. We talk about what it takes to be a scientist, how to navigate your way through the tertiary education system, and how to set yourself up for future employment - you won't want to miss this one!
2/27/2022 • 0
SS: New gene discovery for cloning in global agriculture
Scientist Dr Ross Bicknell discusses the discovery of a new gene described as a game-changer for global agriculture with Scigest host Hilary Ireland. Named PAR, the new gene allows natural reproduction by cloning in plants, enabling highly desirable traits to be carried through to the next generation rather than lost when the plants reproduce through pollination.
1/13/2022 • 0
SB: Fishing For the Answers: applying DNA sequencing to study the species in our oceans
Hoki is one of the most important fish species for the NZ seafood industry. Understanding more about the populations of hoki around NZ is vitally important for the future management and conservation of the species. Andrew Dare speaks with scientists Maren Wellenreuther and David Chagné about the assembly of the hoki genome and how genomic tools were used to get insights into the population structure of this species. This new knowledge can be used to inform management of hoki stocks in New Zealand and showcases the power of genomic approaches in getting insights into the biology of hard to study aquatic species.
12/21/2021 • 0
SS: Catch crops, cleaner freshwater
The nitrate debate is a hot topic in Aotearoa New Zealand. Farmers need efficient methods to mop up excess nitrogen and reduce leaching from our soils into our waterways. Scientist Brendon Malcolm talks with Scigest host Rebecca Bloomer about his catch crops for cleaner freshwater research and how reducing nitrogen through catch crops also provides an economic return for the farmer.
11/9/2021 • 0
SLFM: Journey from Zimbabwe
Emmanuel Chakwizira a crop scientist at Plant & Food Research talks to Nicola Sullivan about his fascinating journey from a family farm in Zimbabwe to helping out our farmers in New Zealand, and the many interesting steps to get there.
10/21/2021 • 0
SS: A whole new world of data
This week, Hilary Irelands talks to Data scientist Dr Peter McAtee about eliminating noisy data, his work implementing machine learning methodologies to analyse massive data sets, and how he is experimenting with using 3D lidar imaging in a biological context.
9/23/2021 • 0
SLFM: Inside an interesting insect career
Entomology Research Associate Sophie Hunt talks about her journey into science, her career in insect rearing and biocontrol research, and how insects are really fascinating, even the ones that make some people cringe!
9/9/2021 • 0
SLFM: A lifetime of magnifying the opportunities
Microscopy has developed hugely in the last 40 years, becoming a vital tool for learning more about all living things.
In this episode of Scigest, we talk to Microscopist Ian Hallet about his lifelong career utilising tools like electron microscopes, light microscopes and confocal microscopes to broaden our knowledge of subjects from fish to fruit.
8/25/2021 • 0
BIOSECURITY: Spiders in, leafroller out – a success in biocontrol
New Zealand's main fruit industries depend upon producing high-quality, residue-free crops for export with a very low incidence of pest damage.
In this episode of Scigest, Blue Plunkett talks to Dr Jim Walker, from the Plant & Food Research Ecological Pest Management team, about how the Light Brown Apple Moth, a major leafroller pest threatening our horticultural industry, was successfully controlled using natural enemies (parasitoids) as a biocontrol solution. By reducing the need for spraying, the return of spiders, cobwebs and earwigs to our orchards is a good sign of flourishing biodiversity.
8/18/2021 • 0
SLFM: How an old idea sparked a new science career
How does an organism without a brain make decisions? What do kiwifruit and an orchestra have in common? Do PhD students really sleep? Today Dr Jay Jayaraman chats with Erin Stroud, a 3rd year PhD student, about her pathway into science and answers those weird questions you didn't know you needed the answers to. Erin is currently investigating how kiwifruit plants use defense hormone signaling to control how they respond to different types of pest and pathogen attack.
7/20/2021 • 0
SS: The good rap on viruses
The world is currently saturated with news about the negative effects of viruses but viruses can also be beneficial and, in fact, are vital to the existence of all living things on this planet. This week Hilary Ireland speaks to Dr Robin MacDiarmid, a passionate plant virologist spreading the message about the amazing world of plant viruses and how beneficial they could be in the future for our food production.
7/1/2021 • 0
SS: A plant microbiome, it’s a whole new world
Plants aren’t just plants. Like animals, they are hosts to a large and complex community of other living organisms, like fungi and bacteria, that can be both beneficial and detrimental to plant growth and health. This week Nicola Sullivan speaks to scientist Hayley Ridgway about the fascinating world of a plant microbiome including her research into the manuka microbiome which could have significant benefits for the manuka honey industry.
6/17/2021 • 0
ID: FROM THIS LAND: COVID episode 5
COVID unleashed a world of risk, frustration and delay for development agencies and those they partner with. But amongst the carnage, has the response of the past 18 months turned up anything positive apart from a carbon footprint cut for agencies? In this COVID special, we hear from two experts. Josie Pagani, executive director at the Council for International Development, the peak body for development agencies in NZ; and Suzie Newman, who heads the International Development Unit at Plant and Food Research.
6/7/2021 • 0
ID: FROM THIS LAND: travelogue episode 4
The team fly south to the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh to see how farmers, designers, scientists and business owners are working together to grow safer, more valuable vegetables. They hear from a dedicated agri-advisor and enjoy the farm and beautiful voice of young Cambodian cucumber farmer and part-time crooner, Sim Sokhon.
6/7/2021 • 0
ID: FROM THIS LAND: travelogue episode 3
How to persuade and train thousands of North Cambodian farmers to ditch rice and grow a range of higher value crops instead? To find out we’ll meet Clint Smythe, an unassuming Kiwi who has turbo-charged melon farmer incomes through smart collaborative marketing. And we’ll visit the small farm of Mai Puy, who has returned home from Thailand to become one of 400 farmers supported to grow high-value crops rather than rice. To see stunning drone footage of Mai’s farm, check out the video on the fromthisland.co.nz website.
6/7/2021 • 0
ID: FROM THIS LAND: travelogue episode 2
Wara, Suzie and Phil head north to the Central Highlands of Vietnam. The attraction? An audacious bid by local firm Sam Agritech to become their country’s first major exporter of avocado. The firm is already a big exporter of black pepper - Vietnam grows a third of global production. Sam Agritech is now eye-ing the US$9.3 billion global market for avocado. It has gone 50-50 with the New Zealand Government to fund Plant & Food Research to help make its dream a reality.
6/7/2021 • 0
ID: FROM THIS LAND: travelogue episode 1
In episode 1. Vietnam: Where giant strides are happening in growing and breeding the Asian delicacy – Dragon Fruit. New Zealand taxpayer money has enabled Vietnamese and Kiwi scientists to overcome dragon fruit’s crippling disease. Learn about dramatic improvements in growing practices, increased income for smallholder farmers, and breeding innovation to commercialise novel varieties of dragon fruit.
6/7/2021 • 0
SS: Growing peanuts in New Zealand
Peanut plants are a rare item in New Zealand even though we are big fan either as a snack or as peanut butter. But is that about to change? This week Jay Jayaraman speaks to Declan Graham, business manager at Plant & Food Research about the first harvest of peanuts up north and the potential for a peanut growing industry in a warming Northland.
5/24/2021 • 0
SLFM: The evolution of a data scientist
Science has always been about collecting data and with the new data collection technologies today we can collect a massive amount. This all needs to be processed to make sense of it which is where a relatively new career of data scientist comes in. Today Hilary Ireland speaks to data scientist Dr Peter McAtee about his journey into a career as a data science. Look out for another podcast with Peter in the next few weeks where we delve into more detail on data science, what Peter is currently working on and the potential for data science in the future.
5/6/2021 • 0
BIOSECURITY: The smell conversation
Insects, animals, plants all use the power of smell to communicate or facilitate reproduction. These smell chemicals are called semiochemicals and today Nicola Sullivan talks to scientist Lloyd Stringer about the use of these chemicals in our battle to protect NZ borders from invasive pests and how we go about discovering what they are and how to reproduce them.
4/18/2021 • 0
SLFM: Never too late
Hilary Ireland is the latest addition to our scigest roster. She gets a taste of the hot seat when she shares her science journey as a late bloomer with host Jay Jayaraman. Hilary, now a research associate and third-year PhD student, didn't pursue a science degree until age 27. Let's hear about her research on Gillenia trifoliata and her advice for those pondering a career switch to science.
3/31/2021 • 0
SLFM: Not your spin doctor
How to make science stand out in an age of information overload? In a reversal of roles scientist Tom Saunders interviews Communications Manager Emma Timewell about the fine line that science communicators walk on to present science in an accurate manner while keeping it accessible and engaging to the general public. She also discusses the role of science organisations in helping the public navigate controversial topics.
3/16/2021 • 0
BIOSECURITY: Revisiting myrtle rust
Dr Rob Beresford returns to scigest with an update on the latest myrtle rust developments this summer in New Zealand and what we know about the fungal disease, its behaviour and its effects host plants so far. Learn how to identify the yellow rust, what to do if your spot it in your home garden or by the roadside, and where to report it.
2/22/2021 • 0
SLFM: Taking off the "girl shoes"
After 30 years at Plant & Food Research and its predecessors, Philippa Stevens is ready for the OE she never had (after Covid)! The soon-to-retire Group GM Science Services looks back on her career which began as a technician. In a chat with new scigest host Hilary Ireland, Philippa shares her transition from science into science management, her involvement in opening export markets for NZ produce and saving the kiwifruit industry from the Psa outbreak, and the moment when she put on her "girl shoes" to fight for career advancement.
1/27/2021 • 0
SB: Fish oil or snake oil?
Fat in food generally gets a bad rap, but fish oil is one of the edible oils that are often associated with health benefits for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids. Our host Andrew chats with Nelson-based marine products scientist and chemist Daniel Killeen. Daniel deciphers the myths about fish oil - what it does to our body and where it came from. He also clears the air about some of the controversies around the subject.
1/21/2021 • 0
SITK: The white light for listeria
Food safety is something we don't really think about until we get a case of an upset stomach. It is however a constant and crucial issue for the supply chain around the food industry. Plant & Food Research is looking at new ways to help the industry combat pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes on food while also reducing chemical and water usage. Today Blue Plunkett speaks to Sravani Gupta a scientist specialising in human pathogenic bacteria on food.
12/23/2020 • 0
SLFM: A kiwifruit legacy
Today we speak to Dr Ross Ferguson, an internationally recognized expert on the biology of kiwifruit. Ross's work helped to develop New Zealand's successful kiwifruit industry. In this podcast he talks to scientist Dr Jay Jayaraman (currently working on the kiwifruit disease PSA) about his career and his science, starting as a summer student and being one of the first people to work on kiwifruit. He also touches on topics like how the first cultivars came to New Zealand and how hermaphrodite kiwifruit would be commercially beneficial.
12/4/2020 • 0
SS: Unlocking the power of smell
As humans, our sense of smell tells us a lot about our surroundings and whether something is potentially good or harmful. Dr Melissa Jordan is an olfactory expert who has studied the evolution of olfaction in animals and insects including tuatara. She is also working to harness the biology that gives certain insects the ability to detect smells unnoticeable to us and turn it into sniffing devices that can be used to detect diseases in humans and biosecurity threats.
11/12/2020 • 0
BIOSECURITY: Friend or foe?
Harlequin ladybird is a recent arrival in New Zealand but growers of major crops have already formed a love-hate relationship with it. Dr Dave Bellamy returns for another episode where he explains the benefits as well as problems posed by harlequin ladybirds in different parts of the country and updates us on his research on enhancing our understanding of the bug.
10/20/2020 • 0
SLS: The slow attack of the guava moth
Have you ever cut open a home-grown feijoa and found rotten brown patches inside? Chances are it was caused by guava moth, an exotic pest from Australia which attacks crops including citrus, macadamia, and pipfruit besides guava. Asha Chhagan is researching ways to control the moth as it is causing more and more damage in certain regions, and she has a few suggestions for home gardeners.
10/1/2020 • 0
SLFM: Going South... for the better
Entomologist Dr Dave Bellamy was a hot dog vendor, high school science teacher and USDA postharvest researcher. Until two years ago, the US-born scientist had never crossed the equator. He shares the ups and downs of his career and tells us what drove him to uproot his family to move to New Zealand, a country he had never set foot in before, and how his science life in Motueka has been going so far.
9/17/2020 • 0
SLFM: Street scientist (and diplomat)
For 25 years Dr Charles Dwamena has made New Zealand home. While he is a scientist working on boosting the colour and nutrient content of fruit in the lab, he is also passionate about communicating science to the "street guy" through a radio show he has co-founded. Outside of his science work, he has recently been appointed as Honorary Consul of Ghana to New Zealand for his contribution to the Ghanaian community in New Zealand.
8/17/2020 • 0
SS: Think like a thrips
Entomologist Jessica Vereijssen is looking for Integrated Pest Management solutions for thrips on strawberry orchards. To make the environment less desirable to the pest, she has to put herself in its shoes. It also helps to have a group of growers who are eager to participate in the research!
7/27/2020 • 0
SS: Gold rush
Dr Phil Elmer calls himself a "magpie" that collects interesting microorganisms with potential. One of the yeast samples that he collected from apricots in Central Otago years ago has recently been released as a biocontrol agent for vine-killing kiwifruit disease Psa. He shares the research and development process of the bee-safe, sustainable solution Aureo®Gold with scigest.
7/9/2020 • 0
SLFM: The apprentice scientists
Michelle Joeng and Karangawai Paringatai-Hare worked alongside Plant & Food Research scientists as student researchers last summer. They give us a review of their respective projects on oysters food safety and taonga plant poroporo. They also share tips on how to succeed in the very selective summer studentship programme and tell us what they've gained from the experience.
5/21/2020 • 0
SMAS: A conversation with Nano Girl
We're back with another chat with Dr Michelle Dickinson, host of the new science show "Breaking It Down" on TVNZ. In this extended episode, we cover a variety of subjects including running the "Nano Girl Live" shows and "Nano Girl Labs", diversity issues in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths), the need for more effective science communication and education, and thoughts on climate change. Note: This was recorded before the outbreak of Covid-19 in New Zealand.
5/4/2020 • 0
SB: Breed like fish
Seafood breeding and plant breeding have a lot in common. Dr Maren Wellenreuther is harnessing plant breeding knowledge to increase the growth rate and tolerance of trevally and snapper while maintaining the health and genetic diversity of the species in an accelerated breeding programme.
4/16/2020 • 0
SLFM: Forty-six years and counting
Dr Brent Clothier has had the same job for 46 years, but there is never a dull moment. The prolific soil and water scientist received the Science New Zealand Plant & Food Research Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019. He shares his insights into how his field has evolved overtime and his outlook for the horticulture industry in the face of the changing climate and growing environment.
4/2/2020 • 0
SS: Six legs good? Integrated pest management for arable farms
Are all insects pests? Is it possible to manage the baddies without wiping out the goodies on a paddock or farm scale? Melanie Davison from Plant & Food Research and Abie Horrocks from the Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) talk about integrated pest management, a pest control approach that uses a mixture of cultural, biological and chemical methods to deal with crop pests. They explain the role of crop monitoring, plant and insect biodiversity, and patience, in this increasingly popular method of pest management.
3/18/2020 • 0
SLFM: Order in the chaos
Dr Nick Albert is the recipient of the Science New Zealand Plant & Food Research Early Career Researcher Award 2019, but his science journey hasn't always been smooth sailing. He recounts his transition from a technology to science degree with the help of his mentors and shares how he has parlayed his new-found passion into a successful career in plant genetics, with a focus on breeding plants with enhanced nutrition.
3/5/2020 • 0
SLFM: Nano Girl: an origin story
How did a shy nanotechnologist acquire the superpower to transform into Nano Girl? Is a phone booth involved? Dr Michelle Dickinson tells us how she overcame her poor performance in college and fear of public speaking to become one of the best known science influencers in New Zealand. She also takes us on an energising and eclectic tour of her science life so far - from nano technology in diapers and toothpaste to working with Richard Branson on his private island. This entertaining podcast also marks the 50th episode of scigest! Can't get enough? Stay tuned for part two when we delve deeper into Michelle's passion for science communications through her "Nano Girl Live" performances and "Nano Girl Labs", a company aiming to inspire, educate and empower through STEM.
2/14/2020 • 0
SLFM: All roads lead to science
Research associate Jung Cho recounts his bumpy road from being a disinterested student almost failing his uni studies and disappointing his immigrant parents to eventually finding his calling in postharvest science. This episode also marks Jay Jayaraman's official induction to the scigest team. Welcome Jay!
1/31/2020 • 0
SS: Drones breeding like flies
How can we improve pollination of field crops and reduce costs? This week we talk with Brad Howlett a scientist from Plant & Food Research and Phil Rolston from Foundation for Arable Research to discuss a fly that is showing huge potential as an alternative pollinator of field and seed crops - the drone fly.
1/21/2020 • 0
SCIFRI: SciFri#2: Insect apocalypse - myth or reality?
Is the world's insect population actually going down or have we just learnt to jog with our mouths shut? Our scifi panel takes on the "insect apocalypse" claim and examines several widely cited papers. Tom, Blue, Jay and newcomer Frances also share exciting news on a novel technology that controls plant disease resistance, quantum supremacy, public trust in scientists, and using larvae to turn food waste into livestock feed.
12/26/2019 • 0
SS: Regenerative Ag - building soil quality
How does farm management influence soil physical, chemical and biological properties? Regenerative farmer Simon Osborne joins Plant & Food Research's Trish Fraser to discuss management on his cropping farm in Canterbury. Soil quality is of paramount importance on Simon's farm, which has been run as a no-till system for around 40 years. All crop residues are retained, and weeds, pests and diseases are managed through integrated systems which include cover crops, crop rotations, biological products, and agrichemicals when required. It's a system that suits this cropping farm, and could provide lessons for others.
12/13/2019 • 0
SLFM: The vine doctor
Dion Mundy talks about his journey as a viticultural scientist. Growing up on a vineyard, Dion's science career has encompassed studies in ecophyiology and research in areas like mulching. Dion discusses sustainability, work-life balance and teaching, as well as management strategies to keep vines healthy, like chainsaw surgery!
11/22/2019 • 0
SLFM: Kaitiaki (guardian) of New Zealand's natural treasures
Jessica Rodrigues chats with Dr Nick Waipara (Rongawhakaata, and Ngāti Ruapani ki Turanga), a Senior Scientist at Plant & Food Research who has spent the past two decades in various roles at the front line of New Zealand's bioprotection. Nick talks about his science career and why protecting New Zealand's primary production and native ecosystems requires a multidisciplinary approach incorporating Mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) and Western science.
11/4/2019 • 0
SLFM: Mastering metabolites
This week Blue Plunkett talks with scientist Andrew Dare about his journey to become a molecular biologist. Andrew talks about his special interest in secondary metabolites of plants - in particular, phloridzin, a metabolite that is only found in apples and has potential for people with type 2 diabetes.
10/11/2019 • 0
SS: Can plant-based foods be more than tofu?
In this special edition recorded at the Horticulture Conference 2019, Plant & Food Research GM Science Food Innovation Jocelyn Eason, NZ's first ever MasterChef winner Brett McGregor and renowned food writer Niki Bezzant explore the growing plant-based diet trend as Brett cooks up a storm for the audience.
9/26/2019 • 0
SCIFRI: SciFri #1: What is natural?
Hi all, this week researchers Andrew Dare, Blue Plunkett, Jay Jayaraman and Tom Saunders will update you on a range of news topics: "lungs" in plants, improving the flu vaccine, a trending #InMice movement, and hydrogen as a potential superconductor. We also delve into a divisive topic: "What is natural?"
9/13/2019 • 0
BIOSECURITY: A lesson from Europe
We sit down with Italian Brown Marmorated Stink Bug expert Professor Claudio Ioriatti during his event-packed recent visit to New Zealand. He shares first-hand account of the devastation of BMSB in Europe and his experience in controlling the pest and other invasive insects that may pose threats to the biosecurity of New Zealand. We acknowledge the conference travel support of Agmardt.
7/24/2019 • 0
BIOSECURITY: Never miss a beat
The traditional way of trapping and counting invasive insects gets old really fast. Biosecurity Research Associate Taylor Welsh has engineered a trapping system that uses the optical beam break technology to accurate identify insects by wing beats. Learn more about this with another new Lincoln-based host Rebecca Bloomer.
6/30/2019 • 0
SLFM: A lifetime in science
Take a walk down memory lane with recently retired Principal Scientist Dr Nigel Larsen. The Science NZ Plant & Food Research Lifetime Achievement Awardee recounts his science journey and his time at DSIR and Crop & Food Research, the predecessors of Plant & Food Research. He also discusses his recent work on proteins that aggravate Coeliac disease. Thanks again to Bioinformatician Susan Thompson for another scigest interview from our Lincoln site.
6/5/2019 • 0
SS: It's not just dirt!
Soil scientist Trish Fraser talks about what soil actually is (hint: not just dirt) and the importance of soil in the environment and for our primary sectors. Our podcaster this week is scientist Nicola Sullivan, another new podcaster covering science from our Lincoln site, welcome aboard scigest Nicola.
5/29/2019 • 0
SLS: The good, the bad and the downright annoying
Not all wasps are created equal. The majority are an important part of our environment in New Zealand, and wasp protein could be the next big thing for food innovation. Bioinformatician Susan Thomson talks to Entomologist Lloyd Stringer about the good guys, but more importantly, the bad guys and steps taken to reduce their populations. This is the first podcast recorded from our Lincoln site, and we welcome our new Lincoln-based podcasters onboard the scigest team.
5/3/2019 • 0
SLFM: Science travels
This week Blue Plunket talks to well travelled post-doctoral scientist Dr Mohamad Al Hassan. Originally from Lebanon, Dr Al Hassan did his Masters in France and his PHD in Spain before travelling to NZ to further his career. We cover his journey into science, the academic road to NZ and his work here on the stress tolerances of plants.
4/14/2019 • 0
TOD: Uncorking the science of climate change and wine
New Zealand is blessed with high UV but moderate temperature, which gives our world renowned white wine a signature fresh, lively and green flavour. With climate change will the warming climate affect the taste of your favourite sauvignon blanc? Wine scientist Dr Damian Martin tells us how winegrowers are adapting to the evolving growing environment and exploring new varieties.
4/8/2019 • 0
SLFM: Experience, enthusiasm and empathy
Prof. Juliet Gerrard tells her story of how her interest in science began and how she developed skills in industry, academia and now as the Prime Minister's Chief Science Advisor. As she shares thoughts and hopes around the future of New Zealand science, she emphasises the importance of being inclusive and offers advice for all stages of a science career.
3/22/2019 • 0
SMAS: Tact, fact and balancing acts
We discuss the tricky job of being the New Zealand Prime Minister's Chief Science Advisor with Prof. Juliet Gerrard. Join our scigest hosts Andrew, Jessica and Blue as they escape the lab to interview one of our leading lights in science in her office. We will hear her thoughts on the role after six months, including how it can help governments address some of the big issues facing New Zealand. Discussion topics also span science trust, gender equality and encouraging minorities into science.
2/21/2019 • 0
SLFM: From elephants to entomology
Applied entomology scientist Jacqui Todd talks about her academic journey into her career, her love of all animals which led to a change in science direction, and working on edible New Zealand insects.
1/21/2019 • 0
SLFM: "Misandry" in kiwifruit breeding?
Emerging kiwifruit scientist Dr Sarah Pilkington talks about how her genetic research that eliminates unproductive male kiwifruit vines can improve kiwifruit orchard productivity. The project has landed her the prestigious Science New Zealand Plant & Food Research Early Career Researcher Award. Her adventurous nature, lessons from her mentors, and time management skills have benefited her personal life too, especially now that she is a mother of one, soon to be two.
12/21/2018 • 0
BIOSECURITY: Understanding myrtle rust in New Zealand
Myrtle rust - it's been in the news a lot since it was first found in New Zealand in 2017 and could have a major effect on some of our native trees. So what actually is it, how far has it spread and what native trees are most at risk? Blue Plunkett talks to Dr Robert Beresford, a pathologist and specialist on rusts who has been working on understanding the spread of the disease in New Zealand.
12/13/2018 • 0
SLFM: Blossoming career, budding family
Can you rise up the ranks in science and be an involved parent at the same time? In a follow-up podcast, Science Group Leader Jill Stanley shares not only personal experiences of raising two sons while developing her career but also thoughts and perspectives as a science manager and mentor.
11/30/2018 • 0
SLFM: Defying boundaries for fruitful outcomes
Dr Jill Stanley recounts her remarkable journey from a keen high school student to her current role as Science Group Leader of Fruit Crops Physiology and Pollination. Her passion and courage to step out of her comfort zone has led to a switch of university degree, a relocation of the entire family to Spain, and a helicopter ride to West Papua's equatorial glaciers to help revegetate the world's largest copper and gold mine at 4 km above sea level.
11/18/2018 • 0
SITK: Climate change and your shopping trolley
Environmental scientist Dr Brent Clothier joins us in the kitchen today for a second episode on climate change. Find out how you, as a consumer, can vote with your wallet to make a difference in the food aisle.
11/1/2018 • 0
AMA: Owairaka District School, invertebrates with room 8 - part 3
Welcome to part 3 and our last Ask Me Anything podcast from students in Room 8, Owairaka District school in Mt Albert, Auckland. Our scientist answering their questions is Dr Nicholas Martin an Entomologist (insect scientist) at Plant & Food Research who has spent over 40 years studying insects, and naming a few new species too!
10/17/2018 • 0
SS: Growing with climate change
When climate change becomes imminent, what can growers do to adapt to extreme weather events to sustain their production or even thrive in the new normal? This week environmental scientist Dr Brent Clothier talks about different levels of adaptation for horticultural production, why horticulture should play a bigger role in the New Zealand economy and how our products can command an eco-premium through these efforts.
10/3/2018 • 0
AMA: Owairaka District School, invertebrates with room 8 - part 2
Welcome to Part 2 of a 3 part Ask Me Anything podcast series with questions from students in Room 8, Owairaka District school in Mt Albert, Auckland. Our scientist answering their questions this week is Dr Nicholas Martin an Entomologist (insect scientist) at Plant & Food Research who has spent over 40 years studying insects, and naming a few new species too!
9/24/2018 • 0
SS: Future foods: all about choice and balance
How can New Zealand prepare for the shifting global protein demands as the flexitarian diet becomes more mainstream? For the first time on Scigest, we have two guests: Dr Jocelyn Eason, General Manager of Food Innovation and Tracey Phelps from our Consumer & Products Insight team.
9/23/2018 • 0
AMA: Owairaka District School, invertebrates with room 8 - part 1
Welcome to Part 1 of our very first Ask Me Anything podcast with questions from students in Room 8, Owairaka District school in Mt Albert, Auckland. Our scientist answering their questions this week is Dr Nicholas Martin an Entomologist (insect scientist) at Plant & Food Research who has spent over 40 years studying insects, and naming a few new species too!
9/5/2018 • 0
TOD: Unripe grapes, a ripe area for research
Scientist Emma Sherman talks about her recent publication titled "Impact of Grape Maturity and Ethanol Concentration on Sensory Properties of Washington State Merlot Wines". This work was chosen as '2018 Enology Best Paper' by the American Society of Enology and Viticulture (ASEV), and celebrated at their National Conference in Monterey, California in June 2018.
8/27/2018 • 0
SLFM: Finding the right chemistry in collaboration and wine
Emma Sherman, a soon-to-be PhD graduate from the University of Auckland, describes how a passion for chemistry, collaboration and exploration have helped her become an award-winning scientist as part of Plant and Food's Viticulture and Oenology group. Emma received the 'Enology Best Paper' award at the American Society of Enology and Viticulture (ASEV) National Conference in June 2018.
7/19/2018 • 0
SLFM: Growing passion into a career
University of Auckland Ph.D. student, Tom Saunders, recounts his experiences of diversity in science, love at first sight (with a parasitoid wasp), and the importance of following your passions and creating your own opportunities. He also discusses why he thinks it is important to have an online profile to assist you in the early stages of your career in science.
6/26/2018 • 0
SB: Seafood chowdown
This week seafood is on the menu as we drop a line to fish scientist Dr Esme Robinson in Lincoln to find out if snapper have bubbly personalities, how you get a fish on a treadmill and the ancient art of flounder tickling.
6/5/2018 • 0
SLFM: Leading science
Chief scientist at Plant & Food Research, Richard Newcomb, talks about his science career journey from a young bug collector to leading the science. Richard also talks about his role as Chief Scientist and the general challenges in working in science.
5/17/2018 • 0
BIOSECURITY: Kicking up a stink
In this episode we talk to entomologist Gonzalo Avila about the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug. This bug that has been intercepted at New Zealand ports catching rides on inbound ships and could do major damage to our horticultural crops in New Zealand if they ever established.
5/3/2018 • 0
SS: The science of Amarasate
We talk this week to Dr Edward Walker one of the lead scientists involved in discovering Amarasate™. Amarasate is a natural extract of New Zealand hops, that has been clinically demonstrated to regulate eating behaviour. An early stage clinical trial suggested that taking Amarasate before a meal can reduce the amount of food eaten and therefore reduce calorie intake.
4/19/2018 • 0
SLFM: Choosing your path
Molecular biology postdoctoral scientist and new mum Dr Jessica Rodrigues, talks about her journey into science, the choices and opportunities that are available early in your science career, and Brad Pitt. Jessica was recently awarded a Rutherford Foundation New Zealand Postdoctoral Fellowship.
4/12/2018 • 0
SITK: Waiter, there are enzymes in my food
Dr William 'Kiwifruit' Laing discusses the many powers of enzymes and describes some of the enzyme actions that we may come across in our kitchen
4/4/2018 • 0
SITK: The ripe stuff
In pursuit of perfectly ripe produce - what is ripeness anyway?
3/16/2018 • 0
SLFM: The road to science
Research associate, Scigester and mini monster truck enthusiast Blue Plunkett talks about his journey into science, the importance of science communications and some advice on heading towards a science career.
3/1/2018 • 0
BIOSECURITY: Pest free fruit and the weevil genius
In this episode we talk to insect scientist Dr Sam Brown about the never ending battle to keep NZ fruit exports free of insect hitchhikers. We also delve into Sam's past and the shadowy underworld of "The Weevil Empire"
2/15/2018 • 0
SLFM: Bitten by the science bug
Bio-protection postdoctoral scientist, Jay Jayaraman, discusses his science journey and the 'bang for buck' potential of plant science discoveries
1/31/2018 • 0
SLFM: It is a science life for me!
Swapping microphones for this podcast, research associate and scigester Brogan McGreal talks about her journey into science and some tips for those thinking about a career in science.
1/17/2018 • 0
SLFM: At home in the lab
Research Technologist and 'scigester' Di Brewster discusses her career path, the opportunities available to budding scientists, and the thrill of unlocking mysteries and making your mark.
12/21/2017 • 0
SLFM: The science business
It's not all about the lab. A science career can mean finding new business opportunities for science and managing science projects. As Business Analyst and Molecular Biologist Nitish Anand has found.
12/7/2017 • 0
BIOSECURITY: The phosphite fight back
Dr Ian Horner discusses Kauri dieback disease and his research to help save the iconic, taonga species.
11/23/2017 • 0
BIOSECURITY: Plant v pathogen
Weapons, surveillance, covert operations and sabotage. Hear from Dr Jo Bowen on how her research is helping the plant outfox the pathogen.
11/8/2017 • 0
T: Scigest trailer
A short trailer on the Scigest podcast channel
10/31/2017 • 0
BIOSECURITY: Cloning super sensors
Manufacturing electronic sensors that harness the super-sensory capacity of insects: Dr Andrew Kralicek is designing new sensing equipment for biosecurity, medical diagnosis and workplace safety from cloned insect protein receptors.
10/2/2017 • 0
SS: Meet the scigesters
A chatty introduction to the scigest team - who we are, the science we do, what we think about science in society, and a bit about Blue's car.
