The Bioresource Processing Alliance has long recognised that the future of New Zealand’s bioeconomy depends on investing in emerging researchers.
That commitment was on full display at the recent Sustainable Solutions Symposium held in Rotorua, where student-led research featured prominently through presentations, posters and networking opportunities that connected the next generation of scientists with industry and research leaders.
Among the student contributors was Jerome Chua, who shared his journey developing the innovative “sea sausage” concept. His presentation, From Lab Bench to Longline: My Journey Developing the Sea Sausage, highlighted how curiosity-driven research can evolve into practical solutions with potential benefits for New Zealand’s aquaculture and food sectors.
Jerome’s story reflected one of the BPA’s core goals: helping students translate research into real-world impact.
Student research was also showcased through poster presentations from two BPA-supported researchers: Akhila Mathew from the University of Waikato and Mary Dang from Lincoln University.
Akhila’s research explores bio-based foams for building safety, developing sustainable alternatives that could reduce reliance on petroleum-based materials while maintaining fire safety performance. Her work demonstrates the breadth of innovation emerging from New Zealand’s bioeconomy, extending beyond food and fibre into advanced materials and construction applications.
Mary Dang’s research focuses on reducing carbon emissions in wine production through the utilisation of grape marc, a major winery by-product. Her work investigates the potential of grape marc-derived biochar to improve soil health, support vine performance, and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions reduction in vineyards. The project reflects the growing importance of circular economy solutions that transform waste streams into valuable resources.
For both students, the BPA’s support has extended well beyond funding, helping them develop research capability, build professional networks and share their work with the wider bioeconomy community.
“The support of the Bioresource Processing Alliance (BPA) has been invaluable throughout my PhD journey,” says Akhila. “It has provided not only financial support but also access to resources. This enabled me to undertake and advance my research at the University of Waikato.”
She says the BPA has also created opportunities to collaborate with the Bioeconomy Science Institute, connect with researchers and industry professionals and showcase her research to wider audiences.
“Presenting my research at the BPA Sustainable Solutions Symposium 2026 was a particularly rewarding experience, providing valuable feedback and opportunities to engage with the wider bioeconomy community,” she says. “I am grateful for the ongoing encouragement, support and opportunities that BPA continues to provide to emerging researchers.”
Mary says the BPA’s support has been instrumental in enabling her to pursue research that addresses both environmental and industry challenges.
“The support from the BPA has been vital in both financially and personally encouraging me throughout this project,” she says. “Receiving the funding allowed me to fully engage in the research and gain valuable experience in vineyard soil science, greenhouse experimentation, and carbon assessment.”
“It has been especially motivating to feel that the BPA recognises the importance of research focused on sustainable viticulture and practical solutions for managing winery waste. Knowing that the project could contribute to improving soil health, vine resilience, and carbon sequestration in New Zealand vineyards has given me a strong sense of purpose and confidence in my work.”
The strong student presence at the Sustainable Solutions Symposium reinforced the importance of developing research capability alongside innovation outcomes. By supporting postgraduate students, creating opportunities to present research and fostering connections with industry and research organisations, the BPA is helping build the talent pipeline needed to grow New Zealand’s bioeconomy.
Events such as the symposium provide an important platform for students to gain feedback, build confidence and demonstrate how their research can contribute to industry and environmental outcomes. Through its continued investment in emerging researchers, BPA is helping ensure that innovative ideas have the opportunity to move from the lab into practical applications that support a more sustainable and prosperous bioeconomy.
The BPA’s annual call for student projects is coming up soon. This year, the BPA is funding one PhD, two master’s and up to eight summer internships, supported and supervised by a collaboration of scientists and researchers from the Bioeconomy Science Institute. The student round will open in early August, and close mid-September.
For more information on the BPA’s student funding options and how to apply, see here: https://bioresourceprocessing.co.nz/apply-now/application-form-students/
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