Taking great science out of the lab and into the real world

Taylor Reweti Hibbard’s journey from researcher to founder started early on in Gisborne, where he developed his love for sciences and the natural world.

Man wearing dark blue top smiling slightly at camera

Taylor (Ngāti Rangi) turned his sights to Te Herenga Waka–Victoria University of Wellington as the place to be for a budding chemist and synthetic biologist. He first completed a Bachelor of Biomedical Science, followed by an Honours degree in Cellular and Molecular Bioscience, where he conducted chemical genomic analyses of cannabinoids using yeast under the guidance of Dr. Andrew Munkacsi.

At Dr Munkacsi’s recommendation, Taylor soon embarked on a PhD at the Ferrier Research Institute under Professor Emily Parker’s supervision. His research was at the cutting edge of microbial biosynthesis, focusing on secondary metabolites (SMs)—natural compounds with potential applications in health and agriculture. His thesis, Investigations into the Genetic and Biochemical Basis for Meroterpenoid Biosynthesis in Tolypocladium album, explores how the filamentous fungus Tolypocladium album produces meroterpenoids, a class of compounds with broad bioactive properties.

“My research aims to better understand the genetics and the enzymes associated with the biosynthesis of these compounds,” he says.

The Synthetic and Chemical Biology lab, led by Professor Parker, became his intellectual home. Taylor describes his first impressions of Ferrier as an “incredibly well-equipped lab, packed with students and post-docs.” He adds, “ It was an amazing learning and working environment, where mentorship and state-of-the-art facilities helped me thrive.”

Reflecting on his time at Ferrier, Taylor says the institute–with its proximity to the School of Chemical and Physical Sciences and the School of Biological Sciences–was an inspiring place to study, filled with world-class expertise, and many opportunities for collaboration and connection with researchers across fields.

From “a-ha” moments in the lab, to celebrating successes with fellow students–and the sheer satisfaction of submitting his final thesis–Taylor believes that the community at Ferrier and across the university made this student journey unforgettable.

Beyond the research, university life taught Taylor the value of networking with peers, lecturers, and researchers to expand his horizons. “It’s not just about academic success— you will have a much more rewarding experience if you engage with the people around you and challenge your comfort zone.”

Earlier this year, Taylor co-founded Bontia Bio, a biotech spin-out from Ferrier’s Synthetic and Chemical Biology lab. The company is applying synthetic biology and precision fermentation to develop sustainable bioactive products for animal health and crop protection. Their flagship project targets flea and tick infections in companion animals using fungal-derived compounds that are both effective and safe.

Bontia Bio’s emergence represents both a career milestone for Taylor and Ferrier’s commitment to creating real-world impact.

“Bontia Bio builds on over a decade of work by Professor Parker and her team,” Taylor explains. “It’s thrilling to see great science taken out of the lab and into the real world.”

While he is deeply passionate about the science behind Bontia Bio, Taylor is embracing the entrepreneurial challenges of the biotech industry, developing new skills and a deeper appreciation for the business side of science. “There’s a growing biotech ecosystem in New Zealand, and it’s exciting to be part of it. I really believe that Bontia Bio has products and a platform that can make a positive change in the world.”


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