At the recent Life Sciences Summit Dinner, BioTechNZ’s executive director Dr Zahra Champion announced the inaugural BioTechNZ Hall of Fame Award winners.
“The Hall of Fame Award recognises very special individuals who have worked tirelessly within the biotech sector and have made a significant difference to individuals, companies and Aotearoa,” says Zahra.
Arora Biosurgery founder and CEO, Dr Brian Ward (pictured above with Zahra) was recognised for his significant contribution to the biotech sector.
“Brian is an inspirational leader, committed to developing the New Zealand biotech sector. In his previous role as CEO of NZBio, he worked hard to grow the biotech industry in New Zealand.
What I believe is truly outstanding is that Brian then seamlessly moved on to create his own successful company – AROA, lighting the way for aspiring kiwi entrepreneurs. Brian has shown true leadership, created opportunities for many, and always been honest about the journey,” says Dr Zahra Champion.
Joining Brian as inaugural members of the BioTech NZ Hall of fame are Brandon Capital’s Duncan Mackintosh, Dr Kjesten Wiig of the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research and South Pacific Sera’s founder Dr William Rolleston.
Congratulations to Dr Kjesten Wiigfor (pictured above) of the Malaghan Institute for Medical Research for her outstanding contribution. As well as leading the Kiwi Vax Covid-19 booster development programme, she has played a key role bringing the research community together to collaborate on the Government funded RNA development platform, for which she is interim co-director
“RNA technology presents a significant opportunity for New Zealand to supercharge its thriving biotech sector and become a leader in the development of novel RNA therapeutics,” she says.
Congratulations to Dr Kjesten Wiigfor (pictured above) of the Malaghan Institute for Medical Research for her outstanding contribution. As well as leading the Kiwi Vax Covid-19 booster development programme, she has played a key role bringing the research community together to collaborate on the Government funded RNA development platform, for which she is interim co-director
“RNA technology presents a significant opportunity for New Zealand to supercharge its thriving biotech sector and become a leader in the development of novel RNA therapeutics,” she says.
Congratulations also to founder and director of South Pacific Sera, Dr William Rolleston, CNZM who has been advocating for science, industry and agriculture for many years.
“I was honoured to induct Dr William Rolleston to the Hall of Fame Awards. William is a very special individual who not only has worked tirelessly within the biotech sector but has also supported other individuals, companies and has made a significant impact for Aotearoa.
“All the work that William has done in carrying the new gene technologies flag, was all worth it, as I believe Aotearoa is ready for a change, and we wouldn’t be here at this point without these individuals,” says Zahra.
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