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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
As climate, economic, and policy pressures reshape agricultural landscapes, our research investigates how changing land\u2011use 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.<\/p>\n
We are co-leading, alongside Prof. Travis Glare<\/a> (Lincoln University), the Scale-Up and Formulation theme of the MBIE-funded program<\/a>: \u201cAdaptable Phage Solutions: An Aotearoa-NZ Platform for Precision Biocontrol in Primary Industries<\/a>.\u201d This initiative aims to develop scalable, adaptable phage formulations that can be deployed across New Zealand\u2019s agricultural sectors to combat bacterial pathogens in crops and livestock, reducing disease burdens and enhancing biosecurity.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Google Scholar\u202c<\/a><\/p>\n Orcid<\/a><\/p>\n Sage Policy Profiles<\/a><\/p>\n New Zealand | China Food Protection Network<\/a><\/p>\nPublications<\/h3>\n
We are grateful to have been awarded r<\/span>esearch funding\u00a0<\/span>from\u00a0<\/span>the following organizations<\/span><\/h3>\n