Maxence Plouviez
Algae Biotechnologist
Role at Cawthron
Max`s research focuses on developing fundamental knowledge of key pathways of microalgae metabolism to improve water management and microalgal biotechnology. For instance, Max`s early research has identified the first biosynthetic pathway of the potent greenhouse gas and ozone depleting pollutant N2O in microalgae and quantified the environmental significance of this poorly known metabolism. Overall, Max has been involved in multiple biotechnology-related projects from which he gained extensive knowledge on the biology of phototrophs, especially the model microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, as well as experience with microalgae cultivation and up-scaling.
Max has also considerable experience in science communication and leading research programmes (e.g. Marsden, Smart-Ideas) involving governmental and industrial partnerships.
Technical skills, experience and interests
- Microalgal biology and physiology
- Mass production of microalgae
- Leadership and management of R&D programmes
- Development of culture techniques for waste minimization and biomass valorization
- Use of traditional and molecular approaches to unravel biochemical pathways
- Greenhouse gases monitoring and inventory
- Science communication
Qualifications
- PhD Biotechnology, Massey University, New Zealand, 2017
- MEng Agricultural sciences, L`institut Agro, France, 2013
Professional Affiliations.
- The Australia New Zealand Marine Biotechnology Society (ANZMBS)
- Editorial board: Marine Biotechnology; Journal of Applied phycology