Workshops

Biotechnology, Actually, Is All Around Us

Te Whatu Stardome, Epsom

Auckland

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10 Sep 2026, 10:00am–12:00pm

Thursday, 10:00am to 12:00pm

$55.00 per person

Presenter: Dr Revel Drummond

Title: Biotechnology, Actually, Is All Around Us

Abstract: Biotechnology is often associated with futuristic laboratories and controversial genetically modified organisms, yet it is already deeply embedded in our everyday lives. From bread, cheese, and medicines to crops, textiles, and household products, humans have been harnessing and modifying biological systems for thousands of years. Our discussion will explore how biotechnology has evolved from traditional practices to modern genetic modification and cutting-edge gene editing technologies such as CRISPR.

Using examples from agriculture, food production, and plant research, the content examines how biotechnology is being used to address challenges including food security, sustainability, climate adaptation, crop disease, and consumer health. It also highlights the growing diversity of genetically modified and gene-edited products now available around the world. Finally, we will discuss how advances in biotechnology are influencing regulatory approaches globally and in New Zealand, and what these changes may mean for future innovation. Biotechnology is not a distant possibility - it is already all around us and increasingly shaping our future.

Date:

This Scientific & Technological Advances workshop will run on Thursday 10th September from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm and include a tea / coffee break.

Venue:

We're delighted to be hosting this workshop at Te Whatu Stardome, where science, astronomy and discovery come together. Set within the beautiful surrounds of Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill, it's the perfect setting for exploring the wonders of science and technology.

About the expert

Dr Revel Drummond

Dr Revel Drummond is a Senior Scientist at the Bioeconomy Science Institute (BSI). Beginning his career there in 2005 he has worked mostly on plant developmental biology and some of the mechanisms that shape plant architecture. The goal in this work is to create new plant shapes that lead to greater product quality and yield with less inputs. Revel’s core methods in this pursuit are the tools of molecular biology and genetic engineering. After he created NZ’s first gene edited flowering plant in 2015 the BSI has continued to use gene editing extensively across many research groups.

These genetic tools require careful consideration before they are applied outside of the laboratory. To better understand the place of his work in broader society Revel was a Fellow at the Office of the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor where he worked to understand the public policy and regulatory implications of the use of genetic technologies here in NZ and globally.