We’re building something new
A unified science institute to drive innovation and commercial outcomes in the bioeconomy, using research and technology to support enduring economic growth and resilience, a healthy environment and beneficial social outcomes for Aotearoa New Zealand.
Our new organisation brings together New Zealand’s four leading bioeconomy research institutes into one. Together, our world-class science can do more to advance innovation in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, aquaculture, biotechnology and manufacturing; protect and enhance ecosystems from biosecurity threats and climate risks; and develop new bio-based technologies and products.
Welcome to the Bioeconomy Science Institute
The Bioeconomy Science Institute brings together AgResearch, Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, Plant & Food Research and Scion into a single organisation.
We are more than 2,000 people, including more than 1,500 scientists and researchers, located across Aotearoa New Zealand and around the world.
We are here to support the growth and resilience of the bioeconomy in New Zealand and beyond. Our science develops new products, processes and technologies that optimise the use of biological resources to deliver food and materials from a resilient supply chain while protecting the natural environment. We translate science into real-world outcomes, impact and commercial success.
The Bioeconomy Science Institute is a Crown Research Institute, owned by the New Zealand Government and governed by an independent Board of Directors. We have deep relationships with business, industry bodies, Māori iwi and hapū, universities, independent research organisations, government and communities.
We’re brand new, formed on 1 July 2025, building on 100 years of history to make a difference to the future.
While we build the Bioeconomy Science Institute, we are committed to ensuring we continue to deliver high-quality science and commercialisation activities through our temporary Group structure.
Pastoral, agri-food and agri-technology
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Terrestrial biodiversity and land resources
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Horticulture, arable, seafood, and food and beverage
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Forestry, biomaterials and wood-derived products
Visit websiteBioeconomy Science Institute Leadership
Mark Piper
Transition CEO
Mark was CEO of Plant & Food Research from 2023 to 2025. Prior to this, he spent 30 years at Fonterra Cooperative Group, including roles as Director Research & Development, Category Marketing & Strategy and Regional Director for Fonterra Americas.
Sue Bidrose
Group CEO – AgResearch
Sue joined AgResearch in 2020. Previously, she was Chief Executive of Dunedin City Council and has held several roles in local government in research, policy and operational roles.
James Stevenson-Wallace
Group CEO – Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research
James joined Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research in 2022 after serving as Chief Executive of the Electricity Authority for 4 years. Prior to this, he held senior leadership roles in regulatory and advisory roles related to forestry, fisheries, petroleum and minerals resources.
Jolon Dyer
Group CEO - Plant & Food Research
Jolon joined Plant & Food Research in 2021. Prior to this, he was at AgResearch for 17 years, including 10 years in Science Group Leader roles and Associate Research Director roles.
Julian Elder
Group CEO – Scion
Julian joined Scion in 2017, having previously led large-scale civil infrastructure projects in waste treatment, renewables, telecommunications, energy and water.
Bioeconomy Science Institute Board
Barry Harris
Chair
Barry was previously Chair of NIWA. He has extensive governance experience, serving on the boards of McFall Fuel, Hamilton Airport Company and Wel Networks, and previously was Chief Executive of Environment Waikato, Greater Wellington Regional Council and Hamilton City Council.
Kim Wallace
Deputy Chair
Kim was previously Chair of AgResearch, and also serves on the boards of Te Manawataki o Te Papa (Chair), Port Nelson and Origin Capital Partners. She previously worked in the global dairy industry.
Gray Baldwin
Director
Gray was previously on the Board of Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research. He is a director of Trinity Lands Ltd and Farmlands Co-operative, and a past director of Ballance AgriNutrients and Livestock Improvement Company (LIC).
Candace Kinser
Director
Candace was previously a director of Plant & Food Research, and is also on the boards of Livestock Improvement Company (LIC) and Helius Therapeutics, President of the Cancer Society for Auckland and Northland, and on the Governing Council of the University of Auckland.
Andrew Morrison
Director
Andrew was previously on the board of AgResearch. He also chairs Ovis Management Ltd and is a director of Wool Source Manufacturing. He has also served on several boards in the agricultural and science sectors.