Emily McIsaac.
The KiwiNet Awards celebrate innovators who turn scientific discoveries into real-world solutions. This year's entries ranged from high protein oat milk powder to AI-driven medtech for eye exams and sustainable plant-based materials.
Among the winners was Master of Science graduate Emily McIsaac, who was awarded the Sprout Agritech Breakthrough Innovator Award for her pioneering work in creating animal-free dairy proteins through her company Daisy Lab.
Ms McIsaac says she was honoured and excited to receive the award.
“Being named a finalist among such talented innovators was already a privilege, but to have won is amazing. My time at Massey University ignited my passion for science. I was fortunate to have inspiring lecturers and enjoyed learning about the diverse fields that science offered. In fact, Daisy Lab’s first breakthroughs happened at Massey, and we are grateful for the support we received in our early days.”
Initially dreaming of becoming a pilot, Ms McIsaac studied genetics at Massey while also learning to fly. However, her fascination with genetics grew, leading her to pursue a master’s degree instead of aviation - a decision she is now grateful for.
Daisy Lab is currently raising funds to build a demo plant, a crucial step in scaling their technology and showcasing its potential to future customers.
“I’m incredibly excited to keep growing Daisy Lab and contribute to transforming how we produce protein right here in New Zealand,” Ms McIsaac says.
KiwiNet CEO Dr James Hutchinson says, “Our 2024 winners exemplify how New Zealand’s public research, combined with exceptional commercialisation leadership, can drive economic growth and provide meaningful solutions to global challenges.”
The KiwiNet Awards are supported by numerous partners, including the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, PwC New Zealand, Sprout Agritech, BNZ and AJ Park. KiwiNet aims to enhance commercial outcomes from publicly funded research, turning scientific innovation into practical applications that benefit all New Zealanders.
Read more here.
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