Algae Business Summit | White Paper

Use the buttons to expand or collapse the section.

• Objectives

  There are three main objectives
  
  -       Collaboratively produce an Industry Roadmap 

  -       Identify Australia's key strengths and how to utilise them fully in the international market

  -       Network and foster relationships domestically, streamlining collaboration and knowledge sharing

• Speakers

  Dr Alex Thomson Industry Manager at Climate Change Cluster  Dr Alex Thomson is the Industry Engagement Manager for the Climate Change Cluster (C3) research institute at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) where she leads the engagement of research in creating climate solutions for the planet, from the planet. With a PhD in marine ecology, she was formerly a lecturer in the School of Life Sciences at UTS, and a Science and Technology Australia ‘Superstar of STEM’.  Through the Deep Green Biotech Hub, she spearheaded the world’s first dedicated algae accelerator program - joining biotechnology and entrepreneurship, and creating opportunities for STEM-preneurs across NSW to accelerate algae innovation and engage with science. She is the co-Producer of the Splendour in the Grass Science Tent, a TEDx speaker, and a big fan of algae and how it can change our planet.	Professor Peter Ralph Executive Director of Climate Change Cluster  Peter Ralph, expert in photosynthesis and pigments biosynthesis in algae. Peter has over 20 years of experience in aquatic photosynthesis research, making significant advances in the understanding of photosynthesis and biomass production in algae. In 2013, he created a new research program that applies his knowledge in photobiology, biophysics and cellular biochemistry to develop sustainable raw algae materials to grow the emerging algal biotechnology sector in Australia. He works with a wide range of start-ups, SMEs, not-for-profits, NGOs and multi-nations to deliver a sustainable circular bioeconomy.	Dr Jon Kallen  Executive Director of Algae Biomass Organization  Jon has extensive experience in the agricultural technology, biotechnology, renewable energy, regulated energy, water/wastewater infrastructure, sustainable manufacturing and environmental services sectors.  Jon is an attorney and engineer with over 25 years of experience working for large-diversified energy companies, engineering consulting firms, and early stage private equity renewable energy/infrastructure project developers.   Jon is currently the Managing Partner of Jennings Kallen Advisors, LLC.   Headquartered in Des Moines, Jennings Kallen Advisors, LLC is a specialized strategic advisory practice focused on the environmental infrastructure, agricultural technology, biotechnology, sustainable manufacturing and renewable energy sectors. Jon also serves as the Executive Director of the Algae Biomass Organization, a leading algae trade association with over 150 members in the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia.
  Wes Ward  Product Manager for Marine Bioproducts Toolbox at Marine Bioproducts CRC Wes Ward is the Product Manager for the Marine Bioproducts Toolbox at the Marine Bioproducts CRC, where he leads the development of a national capability platform designed to unlock Australia’s marine bioeconomy. With a background spanning agriculture, biotechnology, and digital innovation, Wes bridges the gap between research and industry to drive zero-waste, scalable bioproduct solutions. Coming from a multi-generational farming family and founder of Saltbush Innovations, he has led ventures in agtech, martech, and food & beverage, and serves on the Scientific Advisory Board of the TERI-Deakin Nanobiotechnology Centre. Wes is passionate about turning research into real-world outcomes and believes biotechnology is the future of agriculture—doing more with less, while regenerating both land and sea.	Simon Odell  Research Program Manager at Marine Bioproducts CRC Simon is the Research Program Manager at the Marine Bioproducts CRC, where he manages their research project portfolio, builds strong industry–research relationships, and turns new opportunities into action. With nearly 25+ years experience across the environmental, wine, brewing, and marine biotechnology sectors, Simon brings a rare combination of technical depth and practical know-how. He holds an Honours in Biotechnology, a PhD in Soil Science, and a Graduate Diploma in Oenology. Since joining MBCRC in 2022, he’s developed a strong working knowledge of Australia’s marine bioeconomy—who the key players are, what they can do, and how to connect the dots. Known as the glue behind the scenes, Simon thrives on solving problems, managing complexity, and helping research ideas grow into real-world impact.	Daniel Murphy  Senior Investment Manager at NSW DPIRD  Currently a Senior Investment Manager at the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Daniel has 20+ years of experience in economic development, business development, stakeholder management and environmental projects. He has lead strategic initiatives including one of Australia’s first community solar farms through to investment attraction projects for the agribusiness, healthcare, defence and aerospace sectors. At all times he seeks to deliver these investments with alignment to environment and the community outcomes. Daniel holds a Masters degree in Environment and Sustainability and a Bachelors of International Business and is passionate about creating positive impact and contributing to the sustainable development of our regions. More recently he managed the development of the NSW Seaweed Prospectus.
  Marni Oaten  Executive Director at OCTES  Marni Oaten is the co-founder of OCTES, a consultancy and venture development firm specialising in circular economy and energy transition solutions.  Marni contributed to the Blue Economy CRC's work on Ocean Carbon Removal in Australia and New Zealand, ocean energy, and offshore kelp production systems. She is also playing a key role in shaping Australia's seaweed industry, leading reports such as the Seaweed Industry Prospectusfor NSW State Government (2024) and Seaweed Industry Development and Economic Impact Report for Australian Sustainable Seaweed Alliance (2025). Marni focuses on commercial ventures that advance nature-based solutions and biomaterials. Her work aims to address the challenges of developing value chains for seaweed-derived bioproducts. Marni holds an MBA and a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering.	Steve Smyth  Executive Director of Green Blue Health  Exec Director Green Blue Health, Director Wheytogo, Director PDOB Pacific Deep Ocean Biotech, former GM of Nexba and Sales Director Pepsico. Steve is an experienced sales and marketing strategist with  +25 years experience in FMCG, in product commercialisation and in developing commercially viable supply chains. Green Blue Health are an IP and product commercialisation business.  Collectively the team hold +100 years commercialising product innovation, IP, brands in Australia and Internationally.  GBH have a national and international distribution footprint, holding expertise in science, research and development, and in developing go to market strategies.  Skilled in sourcing and developing fit for purpose supply chains.	Dr Samuel Wearne  Lecturer at University of Technology Sydney in Sustainability and Transdisciplinary  Samuel Wearne a sustainability practitioner and transdisciplinary academic who studies systemic change toward sustainable futures. Over the past 15-20 years, he has worked in industry, consulting, and research positions to develop and implement strategic responses to sustainability challenges in Australia, East Asia, Central Asia, and beyond.  At UTS, Sam connects research(ers) and teaching to broader knowledge, civic, and innovation systems in society and teaches practical, creative and strategic ways to pursue change and sustainable futures.