Bold experiment explores complex networks in grasslands
An ambitious research project run by a team of Bio-Protection Research Centre scientists could help to answer questions about the interaction networks that exist between plants, insects and soil organisms in grasslands. Read more
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Research vital to understand kauri killer
Fundamental research by scientists in the Bio-Protection Research Centre is uncovering how the fungus-like organism that causes kauri dieback (Phytophthora agathidicida) is such an effective killer. Read more
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Tackling disease to improve carrot seed production
In early 2017, Bio-Protection Research Centre scientists showcased their research on natural, pesticide-free methods for controlling carrot black rot to seed producers from around the world. Read more
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Biosecurity Award recognises innovative Māori network
The national Māori Biosecurity Network, led by Centre researchers, has been recognised in the inaugural New Zealand Biosecurity Awards. Read more
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Environment Award for vineyard research
Research into organic control of grass grubs in vineyards won the Wine Industry Innovation category at the 2017 Cawthron Marlborough Environment Awards. Read more
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UNESCO partnership to develop diagnostic tools
After a three-year effort, Professor Peter Lockhart has brokered a partnership between Massey University and UNESCO to help develop new diagnostic tools for New Zealand and Pacific Islands. Read more
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New collaboration with world’s best agriculture university
The Bio-Protection Research Centre (BPRC) has signed a collaboration agreement with Wageningen University & Research in the Netherlands. Read more
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Congratulations to the five Bio-Protection Research Centre staff who this year received substantial Marsden Fund Award grants. They are: Murray Cox, Peter Lockhart, Richard Winworth, and Carl Mesarich from Massey University; Jason Tyliankis from the University of Canterbury; and Peter Fineran from the University of Otago, with Paul Gardner from the University of Canterbury.
Sylvester Atijegbe won the Emerging Speaker Award at the New Zealand Plant Protection Society (NZPPS) Conference at the beginning of August.
Rosie Bradshaw has joined an elite group of plant pathologists, having been made a fellow of the Australasian Plant Pathology Society.
Murray Cox was also awarded a DSc in Genomics from the University of Otago and has joined the Environmental Futures Research Institute at Griffith University, Australia as an invited international member.
Peter Fineran was also awarded the Ross Crozier Medal from the Genetics Society of AustralAsia to recognise outstanding contributions to the field of genetics research by a mid-career scientist.
Master’s student Howard London has won Lincoln University’s Three-Minute Thesis
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(Thr3sis) competition, and represented Lincoln at the national finals in August at Victoria University, Wellington.
Artemio Mendoza-Mendoza was recognised as a National Science Researcher from the National Council for Science and Technology in Mexico (CONACYT).
Dilani Kasundara Hettiarachchi has received a Best Poster award at the Joint Conference of the International Society of Chemical Ecology and the Asia-Pacific Association of Chemical Ecology in Kyoto.
Carla Eaton and David Winter were awarded Early Career Researcher grants from Massey University.
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Conference success
More than 140 people attended the Centre’s 2017 conference, held at Lincoln University over two days in November.
The first day showcased the importance of fundamental research – with presentations covering areas such as Maori bioprotection, evolution of pests, and complex systems.
The second day, which was limited to Centre staff and students, featured workshops exploring new areas of research and collaboration.
Feedback included praise for interesting "discussions around complexity and diversity of ecosystems" and "incredible" catering!
The next Bio-Protection Research Centre conference is scheduled for 2019.
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