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Tranche 1 research (2021–2024) represents the foundational phase of Bioprotection Aotearoa’s research programme. These research streams brought together projects and teams focused on understanding biological threats, ecosystem responses, and pathways to long-term resilience.
The knowledge, methods and partnerships developed through Tranche 1 continue to inform current research directions and shape how later phases of work are designed and delivered.
Project 1.1
Ecosystem Health
A new way of understanding ecosystem health for Aotearoa. Connecting science, place, and people to reveal what resilience really looks like.
Project Lead: Professor Ian Dickie
Project 1.2
Interconnected Properties
Processes that promote ecosystem health across scales in the face of pathogen and pest attack
Project Lead: Professor Jason Tylianakis
Project 1.3
Health Frameworks
Exploring new frameworks to assess ecosystem health for Aotearoa. This is where science and Indigenous knowledge systems meet.
Project Lead: Associate Professor Julie Deslippe
Project 2.1
The mechanisms for microbiota-mediated protection
Understanding how plant microbiomes contribute to disease resistance through genetic and chemical interactions.
Project Lead: Dr Monica Gerth
Project 2.2
Genomic Strategies to Strengthen Biocontrol
Using microbiome and virus manipulation to improve pest control agents and reduce resistance.
Project Lead: Professor Peter Dearden
Project 2.3
Harnessing Natural Microbial Defence Systems
Discovering bacterial defence systems to develop next-generation bioprotection tools
Project Lead: Professor Peter Fineran
Project 2.4
Molecular Basis of Host Specificity
Developing new tools for ecosystem-wide disease protection by uncovering how pathogens infect specific host plants.
Co-leads: Professor Rosie Bradshaw and Associate Professor Matt Templeton
Project 3.1
Resilient Soils
Exploring how soils can be managed to promote resilience, disease resistance, and productivity under climate pressure.
Project Lead: Distinguished Professor Leo Condron
Project 3.2
Weed Invasions
Exploring how mānuka and kānuka plantings can support native regeneration while resisting woody weed invasion.
Project Lead: Distinguished Professor Phillip Hulme
Project 3.3
Social Influences
Examining the social and governance influences that support resilient ecosystems and encourage pro-environmental behaviours in Aotearoa.
Project Lead: Professor Ann Brower
Project 4.1
An Indigenous Socio-Ecological Research Theme
Exploring how Indigenous knowledge supports biodiversity and community wellbeing
Project Lead: Professor Nick Roskrudge