Luke Barnett – Bioplastics Lead

PhD researcher at Aberystwyth University, developing biodegradable antimicrobial films from seaweed. Luke leads the seaweed bioplastics activity.

Jessica Adams – Senior Research Scientist

Senior scientist studying how the composition of seaweeds changes over time, and how to extract valuable compounds for uses like bioplastics, soil additives, and dietary products. She works closely with seaweed companies using a pilot-scale biorefinery to test industrial processes.

Fun fact: Jessica’s work helps turn seaweed into materials that support plant growth — and future packaging!

Dan Franklin – Associate Professor

Associate Professor at Bournemouth University, working with better management of blooms and looking for new algae uses and opportunities.

Ellis O’Neill – Assistant Professor

Assistant Professor at the University of Nottingham, working on the algae Euglena gracilis and its potential to produce high-value products like nutraceuticals and antimicrobials. Ellis’ team is exploring ways to boost production through genetic engineering.

Fun fact: Ellis is travelling to Japan in July to try Euglena-based foods and meet other researchers!