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The PhotoSeed technology has direct applications in ryegrass, alfalfa and soybeans (pictured).
The 2015 NZBIO Conference Awards has announced their winners.
The event, hosted at Te Papa, named AgResearch principal scientist, Dr Nick Roberts, as the leading biotechnologist.
Roberts is a principal scientist at AgResearch and is also the co-founder of Algenetix and chief scientific officer of ZeaKal, both of which belong to the San Diego based Kapyon Ventures.
At AgResearch he has used synthetic biology to develop an internationally recognised technology called "PhotoSeed", which increases the photosynthetic capacity of crops, delivering increases in growth, yields and stored energy in crops used for animal feeds.
The PhotoSeed technology has direct applications in ryegrass, alfalfa and soybeans. Should there be a route to market for genetically modified forages in New Zealand it is predicted the increased energy and growth rates for those crops would be transformational for the NZ pastoral industry.
Aroa Biosurgery has also been named as New Zealand's Bioscience Company of the Year and New York-based Dr Shivali Gulab has been chosen as the Young Bioscientist of the Year.
An innovative idea for transforming mechanically deboned meat (MDM) into a meat flake for seasoning has taken top honours in the Meat Industry Association’s (MIA) first-ever Dragon’s Den competition.
The Government's plan to merge the seven crown institutes presents exciting possibilities for plant technology company Grasslanz Technology, says chief executive Megan Skiffington.
AgResearch scientists have collected the first known data showing behavioural developmental impacts on lambs whose mothers were treated with long-acting drugs for parasites.
Primary sector groups appear to be generally supportive of the Gene Technology Bill currently before parliamentarians.
There's been very little reaction to the government science reform announcement, with many saying the devil will be in the detail.
Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says New Zealand's trade interests are best served in a world where trade flows freely.
New Zealand's red meat sector says it is disappointed by the United States' decision to impose tariffs on New Zealand exports.
OPINION: Farmers nationwide will be rubbing their hands with glee at the latest news from the Government about the RMA reforms.
Holstein Friesian NZ and Link Livestock have agreed on a strategic partnership to provide HFNZ members with comprehensive services from one of New Zealand's most respected dairy men.
Rural retailer Farmlands has launched a new casual clothing range available across 42 stores nationwide and through its online store.
Federated Farmers says the health and safety changes announced this week by the Government represent the start of overdue reforms.
