Science Team
Our strength lies in our multidisciplinary approach, integrating Biology, Chemistry and Computer Science. This unique combination empowers us to develop highly effective biological solutions that are not only scientifically sound but also commercially viable, forming the cornerstone of our company’s innovation.
Stephen Ford
MSc (Plant Pathology)
Stephen is a leading Plant Pathologist specialising in Mycology and Biological Formulation. With a master’s degree and as the founder of two innovative agribiotech companies in New Zealand, he’s a proven entrepreneur in the field. His groundbreaking work includes developing a novel biological insecticide that was recently sold to a global market leader. A recognised innovator, Stephen is a winner of the Auckland University Entrepreneurs Challenge, an NZ Bio Award recipient, and a sought-after speaker on global bio-protection.
Robby Pienaar
B.Eng (Chemical)
Robby Pienaar began his career in the fertilizer industry before moving into regulatory and technical management, where he specialised in product development. With strong technical expertise and industry knowledge, Robby now provides technical support to sales agents, ensuring they are equipped with the insights and solutions needed to support growers effectively.
Dr Charné Malan
PhD (Botany/Plant Science)
Charné Malan has experience in product development and agricultural Research and Development, with a strong background in both regulatory affairs and trial management. She is well-versed in South African and international regulatory processes, having compiled and submitted product registrations for multiple markets. Charné has furthermore designed and managed internal trials to support product development and positioning. Passionate about bridging science and regulation, she works closely with cross-functional teams to bring innovative, safe and sustainable agricultural solutions to the market.
Michél Robbertse
MSc Biochemistry
Michél is a skilled geneticist with an MSc in Biochemistry, bringing a strong foundation in molecular science and applied research. Her experience in developing transgenic bacteria and working with protozoan parasites has equipped her with the technical expertise and problem-solving ability to navigate complex biological systems across a wide range of organisms. Driven by a deep commitment to conservation, Michél is passionate about advancing responsible agricultural practices. She is dedicated to developing solutions that support both environmental sustainability and the long-term well-being of communities.
Gretha van Staden
MSc (Zoology & Entomology)
Gretha brings more than three years of specialised experience in mass insect rearing for laboratory bioassays. Her work with diverse and intricate insect species has shaped her into an adaptable, detail-driven scientist with a broad approach to problem-solving. Raised in rural South Africa, she is passionate about supporting farmers through innovative biological solutions and high-quality agricultural technologies in a way that prioritises ecological responsibility.
Rean Meyer
MSc (Environmental Sciences)
Rean is a seasoned research scientist with extensive experience in the agriculture industry, focusing on plant physiology, nutrition, and crop protection. Utilising his background in chemistry and environmental sciences, Rean has developed a strong technical expertise in various roles, formulating agrochemical, biological and nutritional products with a holistic approach. As a skilled professional with experience in R & D, field trials, product development, and technical sales management in Southern Africa, Rean brings a unique blend of technical and commercial acumen to drive sustainable business practices and foster customer relationships, while helping to create innovative new solutions.
Carina Groenewald
BSc Hons (Integrated Pest Management)
Carina Groenewald has over six years of experience in regulatory compliance and product development within the agricultural sector. With expertise in navigating registration processes and advancing product innovation, Carina is passionate about delivering safe, effective and sustainable solutions to growers.
Jarod Ford
BSc (Marine Biology & Biotechnology)
Jarod Ford is a skilled Laboratory Technician with a double BSc in Marine Biology, Ecology, and Biotechnology. Passionate about the intersection of technology and the environment, Jarod maximises his expertise in computing and AI to drive sustainable progress. A reliable and hardworking team player, he brings a strong work ethic and diverse background to every project.
Science Advisory Board
Global Minds, Local Roots: Guiding Africa’s Biological Future
At Blum ™ Biologicals, our mission is guided by a world-class Advisory Board, a collective of distinguished pioneers in epigenetics, environmental justice, process engineering, and metabolomics. This multidisciplinary team shapes our commitment to developing biologically intelligent and ethically grounded pest management solutions. Our innovations are built from Africa’s unique biodiversity, powered by scientific expertise, and designed for planetary resilience.
Professor Michael K. Skinner
The Epigenetic Pioneer
Distinguished Professor of Biological Sciences, Washington State University (USA)
Professor Michael K. Skinner (Ph.D.) is a world-renowned biologist and a founding figure in the field of epigenetics. His discoveries have fundamentally transformed our understanding of how environment and inheritance are intertwined. As a Distinguished Professor at Washington State University, he leads groundbreaking research into how environmental factors, ranging from toxins to nutrition, can cause heritable changes in gene regulation without altering the underlying DNA sequence.
At Blum Biologicals, Professor Skinner is leading a world-first initiative to investigate whether biological pesticides and their metabolites influence the epigenome. His research will enable Blum to meticulously select and design its biological products and excipients to ensure they do not induce harmful epigenetic methylation. This work guarantees that every product we develop is safe, sustainable, and scientifically validated to the highest possible standard.
As the founder of the Centre for Reproductive Biology, Professor Skinner has authored over 300 peer-reviewed papers and been featured in the acclaimed PBS/NOVA documentary “The Ghost in Your Genes”. His collaboration with Blum Biologicals represents a powerful fusion of cutting-edge epigenetic science, environmental responsibility, and African innovation, paving the way for a healthier agricultural future.
Robert Bilott
The Defender Against Forever Chemicals
Partner, Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP (USA)
Robert Bilott is a globally celebrated environmental attorney, renowned for his two-decade legal campaign against DuPont. His tireless work successfully exposed the dangers of PFAS – the persistent “forever chemicals” that continue to contaminate ecosystems and food systems worldwide. His landmark litigation not only secured justice for affected communities but also redefined corporate accountability and inspired global chemical reform.
Portrayed by Mark Ruffalo in the acclaimed film Dark Waters and author of the book Exposure, Bilott is the recipient of the Right Livelihood Award (known as the “Alternative Nobel Prize”) for his exceptional service to public health and environmental justice.
At Blum Biologicals, Robert Bilott provides vital ethical and legal guidance, ensuring every innovation aligns with the highest international standards of transparency, safety, and planetary care. His involvement strongly reinforces Blum’s commitment to building a biopesticide industry rooted in trust, integrity, and corporate responsibility.
Dr Peter Dyer
The Engineer Who Builds Biology at Scale
Senior Process Engineer, Callaghan Innovation (New Zealand)
Dr Peter Dyer is a leading bioprocess engineer in New Zealand, celebrated for his ability to transform biological discoveries into industrial-scale manufacturing systems. Based at Callaghan Innovation in Wellington, he directs multidisciplinary teams that expertly integrate biotechnology, engineering, and data science to create efficient and scalable bioprocesses.
With deep expertise in fermentation, downstream processing, and process intensification, Dr Dyer has successfully guided numerous innovations from initial concept to commercial success.
At Blum Biologicals, he provides strategic direction for the design and optimisation of Blum’s pilot biopesticide plant. His work ensures a seamless translation from discovery to production, guaranteeing that Blum’s biologicals are manufactured with precision, reproducibility, and environmental responsibility, delivering world-class biologicals for African agriculture.
Dr Silas G. Villas-Boas
The Architect of Metabolic Intelligence
Metabolomics Specialist, Ideelab (Brazil)
Dr Silas G. Villas-Boas is an internationally recognised leader in metabolomics and microbial systems biology, currently advancing industrial innovation at Ideelab in Brazil. As a former senior researcher at the University of Auckland and founding director of the Centre for Microbial Innovation, he has dedicated his career to decoding the chemical language of microbes to understand and optimise biological function.
His expertise in metabolic flux analysis, fermentation optimisation, and systems-level biochemistry has fundamentally reshaped modern bioprocess development.
At Blum Biologicals, Dr Villas-Boas provides critical guidance on metabolomic profiling and fermentation design. His insights are key to refining microbial growth conditions, maximising metabolite yield, and boosting overall production efficiency. By focusing on precision fermentation and data-driven biological design, his work ensures that Blum’s products utilise Africa’s rich microbial biodiversity to produce safer, smarter, and more sustainable bio-solutions.
The Biological Advantage
The widespread use of conventional chemical pesticides has led to a global crisis of pest resistance, posing a significant threat to the very foundation of our food supply. At the same time, a growing consumer demand for safe, chemical-free food is reshaping the market. These converging pressures highlight an urgent need for sustainable and innovative solutions.
Decreasing Efficacy of Chemical Pesticides
Pests are rapidly developing resistance to conventional chemical sprays, making them less effective worldwide.
Growing Demand for Chemical-Free Produce
Consumers are increasingly prioritising healthier, chemical-spray-free food due to rising awareness of health and environmental concerns.
Impact on Global Food Security
The challenges posed by failing chemical pesticides directly impact the crucial goal of ensuring sufficient and safe food for the global population.
Minimal Risk to Health and Environment
Biologicals offer solutions with significantly reduced risk to human health and the natural environment compared to traditional chemical methods.
Sustainable Farming Practices
They provide sustainable alternatives that align with evolving expectations for environmental protection and long-term agricultural viability.
Innovative Solutions
Biologicals use natural elements like unique fungi and bacteria, offering groundbreaking approaches to crop protection.
Vision & Mission
The Blum™ Horizon
Our vision at Blum™ Biologicals is to become the leading AI-driven bioscience platform for discovering and developing natural, effective, and sustainable biological pesticides sourced from Africa's rich soil, diverse flora, and unique microbial life.
We envision a future where cutting-edge, environmentally benign solutions transform agriculture and horticulture worldwide. As chemical pesticide tolerance continues to shrink globally, we are committed to pioneering a new era of crop protection. Our AI-led approach will unlock the vast potential within Africa's natural biodiversity, enabling us to innovate rapidly and deliver biological products that not only combat pest resistance effectively but also champion human health and environmental sustainability.
Through our groundbreaking research and development, we aim to be at the forefront of this green revolution in agriculture, offering commercially scalable solutions that meet the growing global demand for chemical-spray-free produce. We aspire to empower farmers with superior, natural alternatives, fostering healthier ecosystems and more resilient food systems for generations to come.
Blum™'s Calling
At Blum™ Biologicals, our mission is to pioneer natural, effective, and sustainable pest control and plant health solutions by harnessing the power of AI-led innovation and South Africa's unique biodiversity.
We are dedicated to developing and commercialising biological alternatives that address the global challenge of chemical pesticide resistance, fostering healthier agriculture and horticulture with minimal risk to human health and the environment.
Blum Biologicals is a proud member of IBMA Global, reflecting our commitment to quality, credibility, and adherence to international best practices in the biological industry.
Developments
Blum™ Biologicals’ innovative approach to developing biopesticides is a unique blend of cutting-edge technology and ancient wisdom, all focused on Africa’s rich biodiversity.
Our Process: The 3D's of Innovation
At Blum™ Biologicals, our unique process is driven by the 3D's: Discovery, Development, and Delivery. This framework allows us to transform natural biological agents into strong, commercial-scale solutions with speed and precision, all powered by our AI-first approach.
Our journey begins with Discovery, led by cutting-edge artificial intelligence. We believe the key to a healthier food system is hidden within nature itself, specifically in Africa's rich biodiversity. Our AI models act as a digital scout, rapidly analysing vast amounts of biological data to identify and predict promising compounds. This process is far more efficient than traditional methods, allowing us to pinpoint the most effective natural biopesticides. We combine this high-tech approach with traditional ethnobotanical knowledge, creating a powerful synergy between technology and indigenous wisdom.
The science behind our Discovery phase is supported by a core pillar: Targeted Biodiscovery. We don’t just search; we target our search with purpose. This ensures we are always looking for the most promising biological agents from the start.
Once a target is identified, we move to Development, where our AI models and scientific expertise work together to bring the product to life. This phase is about more than just finding a compound; it's about understanding and optimising it for real-world use. We meticulously study Fungal and Bacterial Growth Kinetics to understand how our biological agents behave, and we use Genomics and Molecular Biology to analyse and refine their effectiveness precisely.
A crucial part of our development is understanding Plant/Microbe Interactions. By studying how these natural relationships work in the wild, we can create biologicals that work in harmony with the environment. Our team also specialises in advanced Biological Formulation, building stable and user-friendly products. We use advanced techniques like WDG (Water Dispersible Granules) and programmable dual-phase encapsulation to ensure our biopesticides are both highly effective and easy to apply. All our development work is rigorously validated through BioAssays, a testing process that is free from human bias thanks to our AI-mimicked computational systems.
The final stage is Delivery. Here, we use our agile and adaptable pilot plant to scale up production. Our focus on a pilot plant enables us to efficiently demonstrate our technology’s scalability for the African market, ensuring we can meet demand effectively. This final step guarantees that our innovative biologicals are not just scientifically sound but also practical, affordable, and ready to be delivered to growers. By controlling this entire process, we ensure a seamless transition from discovery to a tangible, high-quality product that makes a real difference in agriculture.
The Blum™ Edge
Blum™ Biologicals stands out in the agricultural industry with its unique value proposition. Our products, designed with sustainability and efficiency at their core, not only deliver high effectiveness but also set a new standard in the industry.
Zero Environmental Harm
Our products are built on a foundation of zero environmental harm. We create our biologicals using naturally occurring compounds from indigenous fungi, bacteria, and nematodes, with a special focus on unique biota from Africa and New Zealand. Our specialised formulations ensure that our products are either beneficial or entirely harmless for soil quality, waterways, and plants, causing no damage to natural habitats during or after use.
Safety for all: Low Human and Animal Toxicity
At Blum™ Biologicals, safety is not just a priority; it's a commitment. Our products, with exceptionally low mammalian toxicity, are far safer for people, pets, and a wide range of non-target species than traditional synthetic pesticides. When used correctly, crops treated with our solutions are not just safe, but also nutritious for human consumption. We also ensure that our products are safe for crucial beneficial organisms, such as earthworms, predatory insects, and pollinators like bees, which play a vital role in addressing global food insecurity.
High Efficacy
Our commitment to rigorous scientific standards ensures that our products deliver high efficacy. We work closely with academic institutions and industry bodies, and our products have undergone extensive laboratory and large-scale field tests in several international markets. These tests consistently demonstrate that our bioprotectants are not only practical but also as effective as synthetic pesticides, providing growers with reliable results without the harmful side effects.
Speed of Development and Technical Rigour
The traditional pesticide development process can be lengthy and costly, often taking up to a decade to bring a new chemical to market. By contrast, we can develop biological pesticides quickly and efficiently. We achieve this with our unique technical capabilities and rigour, backed by a powerful team of scientists, commercial leaders, and business development executives.
Technical Expertise
Strategically placed warehouses form the backbone of our operations, guaranteeing consistent stock and prompt dispatch. Our advanced formulation technologies, such as GRANULOYD™, ensure that our bioprotectants are shelf-stable and do not require refrigeration, enabling us to maintain an efficient physical presence and reduce delivery times.
The Strategy: From Knowledge to Sales
This strategy focuses on education, not hard selling. Experts host information sessions for corporate agency officials, addressing common agricultural challenges and providing solutions.
Establishing Authority:
The sessions begin by sharing in-depth scientific information on topics such as crop diseases, their symptoms, and remedies. This establishes the Blum™ Biologicals team as credible experts in their field.
Highlighting the Problem:
Experts explain how plants react to pests and diseases, helping officials understand the severity and complexity of these issues. This creates a sense of urgency and a need for practical solutions.
The Indirect Pitch:
Once the problems are defined, the experts introduce Blum™ Biologicals' products as a direct and effective solution. They demonstrate how their biologicals address the specific issues discussed, positioning the products as the logical next step for anyone facing these problems.
Driving the Sale:
Attendees, now equipped with a deeper understanding of the problems and solutions, can indirectly purchase products from Blum™ Biologicals to address issues on their farms. The training session creates a pull for the product, with demand coming from distributors educated by Blum™'s team.
This approach creates a powerful, indirect sales channel. Blum™ Biologicals relies on expertise and education – not traditional sales tactics – to influence the market, making their products a sought-after solution for agricultural challenges.