Research
The Agricultural and Veterinary Controlled Release (AgVetCR) Lab is at the forefront of innovation in agricultural biotechnology. Our research is centered on two key themes: phage formulations for agricultural applications and the evolving landscape of agricultural land use. By integrating expertise in microbiology, formulation science, and environmental adaptation, we are developing targeted solutions to enhance agricultural resilience and productivity.
Theme 1: Biological Formulations for Agriculture
Our lab specializes in biological (phage, bacteria, plant compunds) based biocontrol, focusing on the development of stable and effective formulations for crop protection, livestock health, and food safety. We are investigating methods to encapsulate and deliver biologicals in forms such as seed coatings, sprays, prills, and wettable powders, ensuring stability and efficacy under field conditions. By leveraging controlled-release technologies , we aim to create precision biocontrol solutions that reduce reliance on antibiotics and chemical pesticides.
Theme 2: Agricultural Land-Use Change and Innovation
As climate, economic, and policy pressures reshape agricultural landscapes, our research investigates how changing land‑use trajectories influence soil function, microbial ecology, and the viability of future farming systems. This includes examining how past and present management practices alter soil microbial communities, nutrient cycling dynamics, and crop suitability across diverse environments.
Key Projects
We are co-leading, alongside Prof. Travis Glare (Lincoln University), the Scale-Up and Formulation theme of the MBIE-funded program: “Adaptable Phage Solutions: An Aotearoa-NZ Platform for Precision Biocontrol in Primary Industries.” This initiative aims to develop scalable, adaptable phage formulations that can be deployed across New Zealand’s agricultural sectors to combat bacterial pathogens in crops and livestock, reducing disease burdens and enhancing biosecurity.
By combining expertise in formulation science, phage technology, and agricultural adaptation, the AgVetCR Lab is driving next-generation solutions for sustainable and resilient food production systems.