scigest - Bioeconomy Science Institute podcasts

What’s floating in the air around us, and where does it come from and where does it go? Scientist and Scigest host Hilary Ireland chats with microbiologist Steve Archer about the fascinating world of airborne microorganisms, from microbes travelling across oceans to their role in shaping ecosystems even down in Antarctica.
Discover how this invisible world could help us better understand biodiversity, predict the spread of pests and protect Aotearoa’s biosecurity. With insights from Steve’s research, this episode explores the science of airborne life and the mysteries researchers are still trying to solve. To see a video on his global aerosphere microbiome research see: https://youtu.be/7iUjZgB6HXk?si=inFoCz0t9jfe6_iT.

If you missed the previous episode with Steve, where we discussed his journey into science and some of the experiences and projects that have shaped his career, you can catch up here on our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/science-life-for-me

The best way to learn is to challenge yourself, and this week’s guest, Dr Steve Archer, has built a career doing exactly that. From working in the freezing conditions of Antarctica to presenting his science to a room full of peers, Steve has faced challenges that have pushed him beyond his comfort zone and shaped his career.
In this episode of Scigest, host and scientist Hilary Ireland sits down with Steve to explore his fascinating career so far looking at airbourne microbial communities in extreme environments around the world. Steve shares stories from the field, reflects on the value of scientific collaboration and communication, and discusses how mentorship and leadership have shaped his approach to science.
Whether you’re an early-career scientist finding your feet or simply curious about what it takes to do science in some of the world’s most challenging environments, there’s plenty to learn from Steve’s experiences.
If you enjoyed hearing from Steve, tune in next episode where we will continue the conversation and explore airborne microbial science in more depth.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra links on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest

What does it take to lead science at a time of significant evolution and opportunity?

In the latest episode, Scigest host and scientist Rebecca Bloomer sits down with Dr Linda Johnson, the new Chief Scientist at the Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao.

Linda reflects on the experiences that shaped her scientific career, discusses her approach to leadership, and shares her priorities as Chief Scientist. She also shares her aspirations for the Bioeconomy Science Institute and her insights on the opportunities ahead for our science and people.

An internationally recognised expert in plant–microbe interactions and microbial biotechnology, Linda brings over 25 years of experience in research, innovation and science leadership. Her career has included leading research that has delivered significant scientific, environmental and economic benefits for New Zealand agriculture.

Tune in to hear Linda’s perspective on science, leadership and helping shape the future of the Bioeconomy Science Institute.
To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra links on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest

Imagine trying to develop a nutritious fish feed for a very picky eater that is only 5 mm long. That’s the challenge scientists at the Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao are tackling as they work to develop new foods for larval fish. Their research could help reduce reliance on traditional live feeds and support a more resilient aquaculture industry, one of the world’s fastest-growing food production sectors.

In this episode of Scigest, scientist and host Julie Blommaert joins scientist Hemi Cumming to explore the surprisingly complex world of feeding tiny fish.  They discuss the challenge of creating a microfeed that delivers the right nutrition while also behaving like the live food larval fish naturally respond to. One of the main live feeds currently used in aquaculture is Artemia, brine shrimp many people will know as Sea-Monkeys. But relying on Artemia comes with risks, including supply uncertainty and the potential for disease. Could a specially designed microfeed provide a more reliable alternative?

Dive into the science behind creating very small food for very small fish and discover why getting it right could make a big difference for the future of aquaculture. To listen to our podcast on producing New Zealand made aquafeeds please click here: https://bit.ly/4AqK9A2.

To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra links on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest

Yellow-legged hornets pose a significant threat to honey bee colonies. While New Zealand's biosecurity response efforts are providing reasons for optimism, overseas experience offers important lessons on how colonies, beekeepers and industries adapt when hornets arrive. In this episode of Scigest, scientist and host Andrew Dare speaks to Dr James Sainsbury, who recently completed a research project developing a yellow-legged hornet readiness guide for the apiculture industry. They discuss what we can learn from overseas experience and how this research can support New Zealand’s current biosecurity response. If you think you’ve seen a yellow-legged hornet, take a photo and report it to MPI by calling 0800 80 99 66 or emailing info@mpi.govt.nz. For more information and to see photos of the hornet please see the MPI information page here: https://bit.ly/Y-LH