The AgVetCR lab is revolutionizing agriculture research with its cutting-edge program focused on two themes: nature-based solutions and agritech. By harnessing the power of analytical, pharmaceutical, and microbial methods, the lab is developing innovative solutions that are both effective and sustainable.
Theme 1: Nature-Based Solutions
Using advanced techniques, the lab is investigating the potential of microbes (including probiotics) for seed coatings, wettable powders, sprays, prills, granules, and the underlying mechanisms to maintain formulated microbe viability. Additionally, we’re leveraging food science, analytical chemistry, and pharmacognosy to improve access to rongoā rākau.
Theme 2: Agritech
Through additive manufacturing techniques such as 3D-printing and electrospinning and combined with big data approaches, the lab is exploring ways to enhance existing and develop new technologies. We’re also tackling wildlife solutions, using taste masking, improved stability, and better delivery baits for controlling ecological and agricultural pests. And by developing new formulations for agrichemicals, functional foods, human and veterinary pharmaceuticals, AgVetCR is driving innovation across multiple industries.
Projects
We’re co-leading with Prof Travis Glare (Lincoln University) the scale up and formulation theme of the MBIE Programme “Adaptable phage solutions: an Aotearoa-NZ platform for precision biocontrol for primary industries” – more information; Adaptable phage solutions: an Aotearoa-NZ platform for precision biocontrol for primary industries
Publications
Prof Craig Bunt – Google Scholar