Speakers at the New IPM

Andrew Plant

Andrew Plant

International Pheromone Systems, Email:

Andrew Plant is a technical and commercial expert in insect pheromone-based pest control, with over two decades of experience spanning biopesticides, semiochemicals, and regulatory strategy. He currently serves as a key member of the team at International Pheromone Systems (IPS), where he supports the development and deployment of sustainable pest monitoring and management solutions. Andrew brings deep cross-sector insight to the evolving role of pheromones in agriculture and public health. His work explores how shifts in regulatory frameworks, industry priorities, and public expectations are paving the way for wider adoption of insect pheromones and biocontrol tools. He is particularly interested in how technological innovation and policy change can accelerate the transition away from conventional pesticides toward more targeted, nature-based alternatives. At New IPM 2025, Andrew offers a strategic overview of the past, present, and future of pheromone-based pest management—drawing on both field experience and industry foresight to spark discussion on what’s next for semiochemical solutions.

Bek Hirstman

Bek Hirstman

AHDB, Email:

Bek Hirstman is a Senior Crop Protection Scientist at AHDB (Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board), where she supports UK growers with evidence-based strategies for pest and disease management. With a background in applied biology and over 15 years’ experience in horticultural research, Bek specialises in integrated crop protection and the practical adoption of IPM tools on farms. Her work focuses on bridging science and practice—developing field-relevant trials, supporting policy discussions, and helping growers adapt to changing pest pressures and reduced pesticide availability.

Daniel Bahia

Daniel Bahia

PheroSyn, Email:

Daniel Bahia is Director of Operations at PheroSyn, a UK-based company developing insect pheromones to support sustainable crop protection. With a background in chemistry and entomology, Daniel works at the interface of science and innovation—bringing lab-based discovery into the hands of growers. At PheroSyn, he leads the development and commercialisation of species-specific pheromone lures that enable early pest detection and targeted IPM strategies. His work supports growers in reducing pesticide use, improving crop resilience, and meeting the growing demand for eco-friendly pest control solutions.

Dr Abu Imroz Ali

Dr Abu Imroz Ali

Russell IPM, Email:

Dr Abu Imroz Ali is a formulation chemist and product development specialist at Russell IPM Ltd, with over 15 years’ experience in the research and commercialisation of pest control technologies. A Chartered Chemist and Member of the Royal Society of Chemistry (MRSC), his work focuses on environmentally sustainable vector management solutions, particularly for mosquito-borne diseases. Dr Ali leads the development of innovative larval control products that integrate physical and biochemical strategies. His recent work introduces a dual-intervention approach combining Silmax, a silicone-based larvicide that disrupts larval respiration, with Mosqinok 0.8P, a novel tablet-formulated insect growth regulator (IGR) based on novaluron. This synergistic method provides both immediate and long-term mosquito suppression—demonstrating >90% mortality in under 15 minutes and extended control lasting up to 18 weeks. His expertise spans formulation chemistry, regulatory compliance, and field deployment of vector control products. Dr Ali’s contributions support scalable, low-impact IPM solutions that address insecticide resistance and align with global public health and sustainability goals.

Dr Arben Myrta

Dr Arben Myrta

Certis Belchim , Email:

Dr. Arben Myrta leads the sustainability team at Certis Belchim and brings over three decades of expertise in plant pathology, nematology, and integrated pest management (IPM). His career spans both academia and industry, with a strong focus on developing sustainable crop protection solutions. He has coordinated numerous international research projects, published over 300 scientific papers, and co-authored or edited 20 professional books. Previously based at the Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Bari (CIHEAM), he coordinated the international fruit tree protection network (MNFT), collaborating with researchers from across Europe and the Mediterranean. Dr. Myrta has advised major international organisations including the European Commission, FAO, the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Government of Canada. He continues to work closely with academia, particularly with Prof. Tariq Butt at Swansea University, and has supervised many MSc and PhD students in IPM. He holds a PhD from the University of Bari and has been recognised as Associate Professor at the Agricultural University of Tirana and as Full Professor (eligibility) by the Italian Ministry of Research. He is an active member of several professional societies, including the Italian Nematology Society.

Dr Barry Brogan

Dr Barry Brogan

Enviresearch, Email:

Dr Barry Brogan is a Senior Regulatory Efficacy Consultant at Enviresearch, where he specialises in supporting the registration of biopesticides and other plant protection products within complex regulatory frameworks. With a background in crop protection and regulatory science, Barry helps clients navigate the challenges of generating efficacy data for biological products—ensuring they meet guidance originally designed for synthetic chemicals. His work bridges science, policy, and compliance to advance the uptake of more sustainable solutions in pest management.

Dr Basaran Bahadir Kocer

Dr Basaran Bahadir Kocer

University of Bristol, Email:

Dr Bahadir Kocer is a Lecturer in Aerial Robotics within the School of Civil, Aerospace and Design Engineering at the University of Bristol scholar.google.com+14research-information.bris.ac.uk+14research-information.bris.ac.uk+14. His research focuses on bio-inspired, energy-efficient drone technologies to support long-term environmental monitoring and precision sensing in natural ecosystems. He leads the development of innovative aerial systems featuring perching and tethered mechanisms that reduce ecological disturbance and operational noise. These modalities enable drones to attach to branches or natural substrates, minimizing flight activity while enabling sustained data collection High-resolution sensing is maintained through compliant structures and efficient power use spiral.imperial.ac.uk+4research-information.bris.ac.uk+4arxiv.org+4. Dr Kocer's work demonstrates how minimally invasive aerial systems can revolutionize environmental monitoring—offering scalable tools for ecosystem research, conservation applications, and precision agriculture. In his presentation, he shares experimental insights and field-tested results showcasing the potential of perching drones to enhance ecological data collection. Let me know if you’d like this trimmed for printed materials or tailored for different sector audiences! Sources Ask ChatGPT

Dr Dan Eastwood

Dr Dan Eastwood

Swansea University, Email:

Dr Dan Eastwood is Associate Professor of Biosciences at Swansea University and Co-Lead of the Natural Products BioHUB and Green Economy Centre. With a background in fungal biology and microbial ecology, Dan’s research focuses on soil health, biocontrol, and sustainable food systems. He works across disciplines to explore how microbes and natural products can be used to reduce reliance on synthetic inputs in agriculture. Dan plays a key role in regional and international projects aimed at supporting green innovation and developing nature-based solutions for food and environmental security.

Dr Ian Baxter

Dr Ian Baxter

Koppert BV, Email:

Dr Ian Baxter is Senior Global Regulatory Specialist at Koppert BV and has served as Vice‑President of IBMA UK (the U.K. arm of the International Biocontrol Manufacturers Association) for the past three years. With over 25 years’ experience in biocontrol, Ian has overseen technical development and regulatory affairs for both biopesticides and macrobiologicals, specializing in submission strategies and toxicological dossiers. He now leads IBMA UK’s Regulatory Reform Task Force, championing members’ interests in post‑Brexit Britain. Outside work, Ian helps run the family farm and manages his own equestrian yard.

Dr Ivan Dubovskiy

Dr Ivan Dubovskiy

Novosibirsk State Agrarian University, Russia, Email:

Dr Ivan Dubovskiy is Professor of Entomology and Head of the Research Center of Biological Plant Protection at Novosibirsk State Agrarian University, Russia. He specialises in insect pathology and biological pest control, with a focus on entomopathogenic fungi and sustainable strategies for managing key crop pests. With over 20 years’ experience, Ivan has led major research into host-pathogen interactions and is now applying advanced biocontrol technologies to tackle the Colorado potato beetle, blending classical methods with state-of-the-art innovations.

Dr Mustapha Touray

Dr Mustapha Touray

Swansea University, Email:

Dr Mustapha Touray is a biologist and research assistant at Swansea University, specialising in sustainable and cost-effective methods for pathogen, pest, and vector control. His PhD focused on natural products for mosquito management, with wider expertise in biocontrol agents for both vector and crop pests. His research includes work on bacteria-derived metabolites, entomopathogenic fungi (EPF), nematodes (EPN), and semiochemicals such as kairomones—contributing to nature-based alternatives to chemical pesticides. Mustapha has collaborated with research teams across Europe, including Aydin Adnan Menderes University and the University of Copenhagen. His work supports innovation in biopesticides and integrated pest management for health and agricultural resilience.

Dr Nayem Hassan

Dr Nayem Hassan

Russell Bio Solutions, Email:

Dr Nayem Hassan is Managing Director of Russell Bio Solutions and Head of Research & Development at Russell IPM Ltd, where he leads innovation in semiochemical-based crop protection. A specialist in chemical ecology, Nayem has over 15 years of experience developing pheromone technologies for pest monitoring and control. His work spans the full R&D pipeline—from the isolation and formulation of insect pheromones to field testing and commercial rollout. With a focus on low-cost, species-specific attractants like Bionock, Nayem supports growers with practical, environmentally sustainable tools to combat fruit fly and other major crop pests.

Dr Owen Jones

Dr Owen Jones

Lisk & Jones Consultants Ltd, Wales, Email:

Dr Owen Jones is a partner in the consultancy company Lisk & Jones Consultants Ltd that specialises in benign pest management technologies. He advises clients on related to semiochemicals, microbial products, biostimulants and plant-derived products. Prior to his semi-retirement in 2012 he was responsible for Global Strategy at Suterra LLC and was based at AgriSense BCS Ltd, a company which he helped establish in 1984 to develop and commercialise insect monitoring and control systems based on pheromones. He was also the President of the International Biocontrol Manufacturers’ Association (IBMA) for two years until December 2012 and on the board of IBMA for 5 years prior to that. Dr Jones’ academic qualifications include a Bachelor of Science Degree from Bangor University and a Doctor of Philosophy Degree from the University of Cambridge (Churchill College). Dr Jones has been a Fellow of the Royal Entomological Society of London since 1978, an Honorary Professor in the School of Biosciences, Cardiff University and an Honorary Fellow of Bangor University.

Dr Pete Arnold

Dr Pete Arnold

Swansea University, Email:

Dr Pete Arnold is a Senior Lecturer at Swansea University and an engineer, biotechnologist, and beekeeper. His research focuses on developing low-cost, close-proximity sensor swarms to monitor in-hive honeybee behaviour—merging data science with beekeeping to better understand colony dynamics. Funded by MASI, Pete’s work aims to simplify the beekeeper–colony relationship while generating large-scale behavioural data that can reveal regional trends. His goal is to create practical, accessible IoT tools that benefit both bees and their keepers—while collaborating with others to explore broader applications across the IPM landscape.

Dr Peter Kennedy

Dr Peter Kennedy

University of Exeter, Email:

Dr Peter Kennedy is a Research Fellow at the University of Exeter, specialising in behavioural ecology, invasive species, and pollinator conservation. His current research focuses on the impact and management of Vespa velutina—the invasive Asian hornet threatening honeybees and wild pollinators across Europe. Peter’s work combines ecological field studies with advanced technologies including radio-tracking, thermal imaging, and AI. He is part of the team developing VespAI, an automated hornet detection system designed to support rapid nest identification and removal—helping protect pollinator health and biodiversity at landscape scale.

Dr Peter Lueth

Dr Peter Lueth

The Toothpick Project, Email:

Peter Leuth is a pioneer in the biocontrol world, known for turning bold ideas into real-world solutions. As founder and former Managing Director of PROPHYTA—later acquired by Bayer CropScience and now part of Lallemand—Peter led the development of two breakthrough fungal biopesticides: Contans WG, a biological fungicide, and BioAct Prime, a nematicide. Now a board member at Toothpick Company Ltd, Peter is helping fight one of Africa’s most devastating parasitic weeds—Striga hermonthica (or witchweed)—with an innovative fungal-based product called Kichawi Kill Spore Powder, which officially launched last year. Peter excels in using nature to tackle some of agriculture’s toughest challenges.

Dr Richard Naylor

Dr Richard Naylor

Cimex Store Ltd. & The Bed Bug Foundation CIC, Email:

Richard Naylor is a leading entomologist and Director of Cimex Store Ltd., a company dedicated to advancing bed bug detection and control technologies. He is also co-founder of The Bed Bug Foundation CIC, which works to improve professional standards and public awareness around bed bug infestations. At Cimex Store, Richard has developed one of the world’s most realistic bed bug testing environments—fully furnished bedrooms equipped with infrared time-lapse cameras and even a live human host. These unique facilities have been used to trial a wide range of innovative solutions, from remote digital monitors to barrier tapes, traps, and sprays—bringing scientific rigour to a persistent global problem.

Dr Sam Cook

Dr Sam Cook

Rothamsted Research, Email: Sam Cook sam.cook@rothamsted.ac.uk

Dr Sam Cook is a Senior Research Scientist at Rothamsted Research, specialising in insect behavioural ecology and integrated pest management (IPM). Her work focuses on developing sustainable control strategies for key arable pests—particularly in oilseed rape—such as pollen beetle and cabbage stem flea beetle. Sam’s research explores the intersection of IPM and regenerative agriculture, with active projects on conservation biocontrol, automated detection of pests and beneficials, and the urgent question: can IPM save oilseed rape? Her work bridges practical farm solutions with cutting-edge ecological science to support resilient, low-input cropping systems.

Ekaterina Grizanova

Ekaterina Grizanova

Ekaterina Grizanova is a researcher at Novosibirsk State Agrarian University, Russia, Email:

Ekaterina Grizanova is a researcher at Novosibirsk State Agrarian University, specialising in insect immunology and host–parasite interactions. Her work focuses on the immune responses of Galleria mellonella as a model host, particularly the mechanisms of resistance to entomopathogenic bacteria and fungi. A key area of her research explores the role of virulence factors in Bacillus thuringiensis during insect infection, with the aim of enhancing the effectiveness of existing biopesticides and supporting the development of new Bt-based biological insecticides.

Glen Slade

Glen Slade

Founder and CEO Zyzzle Ltd t/a BigSis, Email:

Glen Slade is the Founder and CEO of BigSis, a UK-based ag-tech company developing precision biocontrol solutions using a modernised sterile insect technique (SIT). With a background in computer science and agribusiness leadership at Zeneca, Syngenta and Oxitec, Glen brings a unique blend of tech and field expertise to sustainable crop protection. At BigSis, he leads the development of AI-driven rearing and release systems that make SIT scalable and affordable. Their flagship work on spotted wing drosophila has demonstrated up to 91% suppression, offering growers a commercially viable, chemical-free pest control alternative.

Guy Smagghe

Guy Smagghe

Ghent University, Email:

Dr Guy Smagghe is a Professor in the Department of Plants and Crops at Ghent University, Belgium, with over 20 years of research experience in insect physiology, pollinator health, and sustainable crop protection. His work has shaped understanding of pesticide impacts on bumblebees and advanced the use of entomovectoring—harnessing pollinators to deliver biological agents for improved pollination and pest control. Guy’s research bridges risk assessment, biocontrol, and innovation at the interface of ecology and agriculture.

Lorena Halty de Leon

Lorena Halty de Leon

i2L Research, Email:

Lorena Halty is a Study Director at i2L Research, specialising in the design and implementation of efficacy trials for biopesticides and semiochemicals. With a background in agricultural science and extensive field experience, Lorena focuses on developing robust testing protocols for pheromone-based pest control solutions. Her work addresses the challenges of evaluating species-specific, low-dose pheromones under simulated use conditions—ensuring these tools can be reliably assessed and widely adopted. Lorena plays a key role in advancing regulatory-ready data generation that supports the growth of environmentally friendly pest management strategies.

Maggie Gill

Maggie Gill

Senior Scientist at Defra , Email:

Maggie Gill has over 20 years of experience in beekeeping, combining small-scale commercial queen and colony production with applied research. Currently a Senior Scientist at Defra where she is focused on the impacts of agri-environment land management on pollinators within the Future Farming and Countryside Programme. Maggie previously spent a decade with the National Bee Unit, contributing to the UK’s bee health surveillance programme as both a seasonal and regional bee inspector. Motivated by a deep commitment to bees and environmental conservation, Maggie’s research has explored honey bee nutrition, pests, and diseases. Her collaborative work has involved partnerships with universities, government agencies, and research institutions across Europe, North America, and Asia.

Martin Wohlfarter

Martin Wohlfarter

Koppert BV, Email:

Martin Wohlfarter is a Global Regulatory Affairs Specialist at Koppert B.V., based in the Netherlands. With over 15 years of international experience in sustainable agriculture and IPM, he has worked across fruit exports, SIR programmes, and biocontrol product development. Martin holds degrees in Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, as well as an MBA from the University of Cape Town with studies in Turkey and Denmark. He advises on macro regulation and policy, and serves in leadership roles across several industry groups including IBMA and Artemis. Outside work, he’s a passionate traveller and arthropod enthusiast.

Martyn Cox

Martyn Cox

Blackthorn Arable , Email:

UK-based agronomist Martyn Cox is the Director of Blackthorn Arable and a recognised wireworm specialist, with over 45 years’ experience advising potato and arable growers. As a member of the European Wireworm Research Network (EWRN), he promotes cross-border collaboration to tackle this persistent pest across Europe. Martyn has led pioneering work on wireworm risk assessment and IPM strategies, including a landmark 2022 review for CUPGRA that updated UK knowledge on species biology, practical monitoring using pheromone and bait traps, and rotational management. He is a core contributor to Fera’s Enigma I programme, helping develop actionable tools such as photographic ID guides, population mapping, and decision-support frameworks for growers. His practical recommendations—such as early monitoring, selective crop varieties, tailored rotations, cover crop design, and cultivation timing—are already helping UK farmers better understand and mitigate losses from wireworm infestations.

Norman Carreck

Norman Carreck

Carreck Consultancy Ltd & Bee Publishing Ltd, University of Sussex. , Email:

Dr Norman Carreck is a leading expert in bee health, Director at Carreck Consultancy Ltd and Bee Publishing Ltd, based at the University of Sussex. With decades of hands‑on beekeeping and over 25 years in bee science, Norman is globally recognized for his work on pollinator pathology, diagnostics, and sustainable apiculture. He co-chairs the UK Bee Health Advisory Forum and serves on the executive committee of COLOSS, the international honey bee health network. Norman’s expertise informs policy, research, and practice—helping safeguard pollinators essential for ecosystems and agriculture worldwide.

Noureddine Idali

Noureddine Idali

Cadi Ayyad University, Morocco, Email:

Noureddine Idali is a PhD candidate at the AgroBiotechnology and Bioengineering Center, Cadi Ayyad University, Morocco. His research focuses on innovative biostimulant strategies—specifically, dual priming with entomopathogenic fungi and salicylic acid—to boost salt tolerance in tomatoes. By combining a salt-resilient Metarhizium robertsii strain with SA priming, his work enhances germination, antioxidant defence, and biomass under high salinity, presenting a scalable, eco-friendly solution for salt-affected agriculture.

Prof. Gordon Hamilton

Prof. Gordon Hamilton

Lancaster University, Email:

Professor Gordon Hamilton is a medical entomologist with over 30 years of experience in vector biology and disease control. Currently based at Lancaster University, he leads research into innovative approaches for managing insect-borne diseases, with a focus on translational science that bridges lab research and field impact. Gordon holds a BSc and MSc in Zoology and Chemistry from Cardiff University, a PhD in Biomedical Sciences from Old Dominion University, and completed postdoctoral training at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine and Rothamsted Research. He previously held academic positions at Keele University, progressing from Lecturer to Professor within the Centre for Applied Entomology and Parasitology. His current work centres on the use of synthetic sex aggregation pheromones to reduce the transmission of visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil. Field trials have demonstrated that this targeted intervention significantly reduces parasite load, infectiousness in dogs, and sand fly vector populations—offering a promising, scalable tool for protecting both human and animal health in vulnerable communities.

Prof. Sean D. Moore

Prof. Sean D. Moore

Citrus Research International, Rhodes University & Centre for Biological Control, Email:

Prof. Sean D. Moore is Research Manager at Citrus Research International, Visiting Professor at Rhodes University, and Deputy Director of the Centre for Biological Control, where he leads the agricultural pests programme. With a PhD in biotechnology and a Master’s in entomology from Rhodes, Sean has over 25 years’ experience in citrus entomology, insect pathology, and microbial pest control. He specialises in the use of insect viruses—particularly baculoviruses—for the sustainable management of agricultural pests, including the notorious false codling moth. In 2003, he founded River Bioscience, a leading biopesticide company focused on viral biocontrol, which he managed and helped steer through its formative years. Sean has authored over 85 peer-reviewed papers and book chapters and has supervised more than 50 MSc, PhD, and postdoctoral researchers. His work bridges academic excellence, commercial innovation, and practical solutions for growers—contributing significantly to the advancement of IPM strategies in South Africa and beyond.

Professor John Pickett

Professor John Pickett

Cardiff University, Email:

Professor John Pickett CBE FRS is a world leader in chemical ecology. Over a distinguished career, his pioneering research has transformed the use of pheromones and natural products in agriculture, contributing to more sustainable pest control methods globally. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society and a recipient of numerous honours including the Wolf Prize in Agriculture, the Rank Prize, and the International Society of Chemical Ecology Medal. John has held prestigious lectureships, including the Royal Society’s Croonian Lecture, and was appointed CBE for Services to Biological Chemistry. He continues to play a key role in advancing integrated pest management research and mentoring the next generation of scientists.

Ross Haffendem

Ross Haffendem

OptiGene, Email:

Ross Haffenden is Chief Commercial Officer at OptiGene Ltd, a UK-based leader in molecular diagnostics. With a background in biotechnology and commercial strategy, Ross focuses on bringing innovative, rapid testing solutions to agriculture, plant health, and environmental monitoring. At OptiGene, he leads the development and deployment of real-time molecular diagnostics that enable early, accurate identification of pests and diseases—supporting timely, targeted IPM decisions. His work bridges science, technology, and market application to improve responsiveness and reduce crop losses across sectors.

Steve Arthurs

Steve Arthurs

BioBee USA, Email:

Dr Steven Arthurs is Technical Director at BioBee USA and an applied entomologist with over 25 years’ experience in IPM and biological control across the Americas. His work spans academia, extension, and industry, with a focus on practical pest solutions for field and protected crops. At BioBee, he leads the development of aerial application methods for macrobial biological control agents (BCAs). His recent work explores how drones can efficiently deliver beneficial arthropods—such as predatory mites—across large-scale systems including strawberries, citrus, and other row crops. Steven’s expertise bridges research and grower adoption, supporting scalable biocontrol strategies that reduce reliance on chemical inputs. At New IPM 2025, he will share insights from U.S. field trials and grower collaborations, highlighting the potential of drone technologies in modern pest management.

Vincent Duquette

Vincent Duquette

BugBiome, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), Email:

Vincent Duquette is a global health researcher and MSc candidate in Control of Infectious Diseases at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. Originally from Québec, Canada, he holds a BSc in Microbiology & Immunology and International Development from McGill University, where he was named a Global Health Scholar. Vincent’s current research explores the potential of bacteria-derived biocontrol agents for mosquito management. His work establishes a novel screening platform to assess bacterial isolates—sourced from human skin and soil—for their effects on both larval and adult Culex pipiens molestus mosquitoes. Using microplate assays and video tracking, he evaluates mortality, behavioural disruption, and blood-feeding deterrence, with a focus on identifying sublethal impacts. By targeting multiple life stages, his research contributes to the development of sustainable, biologically based tools within integrated mosquito management frameworks. With experience in HIV treatment programmes across Canada and South Africa, Vincent brings a strong interdisciplinary perspective to vector control, combining lab-based innovation with field relevance and public health impact.

Posters at the New IPM