Finding a moth in a haystack - The important role of citizen scientists (BDIS)

What does it take to lead science at a time of significant evolution and opportunity?
 In the latest episode, Scigest host and scientist Rebecca Bloomer sits down with Dr Linda Johnson, the new Chief Scientist at the Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao.
 Linda reflects on the experiences that shaped her scientific career, discusses her approach to leadership, and shares her priorities as Chief Scientist. She also shares her aspirations for the Bioeconomy Science Institute and her insights on the opportunities ahead for our science and people.
 An internationally recognised expert in plant–microbe interactions and microbial biotechnology, Linda brings over 25 years of experience in research, innovation and science leadership. Her career has included leading research that has delivered significant scientific, environmental and economic benefits for New Zealand agriculture.
 Tune in to hear Linda’s perspective on science, leadership and helping shape the future of the Bioeconomy Science Institute. To view our full catalogue of podcasts including extra links on some podcasts please go to our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/scigest

Imagine trying to develop a nutritious fish feed for a very picky eater that is only 5 mm long. That’s the challenge scientists at the Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao are tackling as they work to develop new foods for larval fish. Their research could help reduce reliance on traditional live feeds and support a more resilient aquaculture industry, one of the world’s fastest-growing food production sectors.

Yellow-legged hornets pose a significant threat to honey bee colonies. While New Zealand's biosecurity response efforts are providing reasons for optimism, overseas experience offers important lessons on how colonies, beekeepers and industries adapt when hornets arrive. In this episode of Scigest, scientist and host Andrew Dare speaks to Dr James Sainsbury, who recently completed a research project developing a yellow-legged hornet readiness guide for the apiculture industry. They discuss what we can learn from overseas experience and how this research can support New Zealand’s current biosecurity response. If you think you’ve seen a yellow-legged hornet, take a photo and report it to MPI by calling 0800 80 99 66 or emailing [email protected]. For more information and to see photos of the hornet please see the MPI information page here: https://bit.ly/Y-LH

In the second part of this Scigest conversation, host Dr Hilary Ireland continues her discussion with recently retired mycologist Dr Peter Buchanan, exploring the legacy of a career that spanned five decades of fungal research, collaboration and science communication.

Fungi underpin the health of our ecosystems, yet they're one of the least understood groups of organisms. In this episode of Scigest, host Dr Hilary Ireland sits down with recently retired mycologist Dr Peter Buchanan, whose remarkable 50-year career has helped transform our understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand's fungi.