Driving Innovation Through Expertise: The Analytical Technology Microbiology & Molecular Biology Team
Pictured: Sara Loeffen(L), Lisa Bullock and Aarav Marwaha. Absent: Eilidh Mowat and Jibran Tahir
Thinking outside the box comes naturally to Hill Labs’ Analytical Technology (AT) Microbiology & Molecular Biology team. The team of five plays a pivotal role in developing and validating new methods across our microbiology and molecular biology services. Alongside building new testing capabilities, they continually refine existing methods and provide technical support to operational teams.
While much of their work focuses on food safety, their expertise also spans environmental and agricultural services. Based across Hamilton and Christchurch, the team brings together a diverse mix of skills. Each member leads their own specialist projects, often quite different from one another, creating a rich environment for knowledge sharing without overlapping workstreams.
“It’s pretty cool to be in a position to be innovative and think outside of the box. In the last couple of years, one thing we’ve done that’s quite different is the multiswab testing. We developed that because we had the technical expertise to design the test and robustly validate it,” says Technical Manager Eilidh Mowat.
Eilidh says the Hill Labs’ multiswab method delivers major benefits for customers: one environmental swab that screens for multiple pathogens - saving time, reducing plastic use, and supporting environmental sustainability.
The team also partners closely with the Commercial team, providing technical expertise during business development discussions, helping scope new opportunities, and collaborating with external organisations. Many projects rely on these strong partnerships to succeed.
Turning Ideas Into Industry‑Leading Solutions
The AT team has driven several important innovations, and their commitment to pushing boundaries continues to shape the future of testing. One example is the Earthworm eDNA in Soil project, which enabled Hill Labs to become the first laboratory in New Zealand to offer this test. Developed in collaboration with founder and Executive Director Roger Hill and AgResearch, this molecular tool supports soil health monitoring and complements existing soil testing services.
“It’s an exciting time to work in this space with everything going on in the business,” Eilidh says.
Another recent milestone is the introduction of MALDI‑TOF technology into Christchurch’s services. This advanced equipment allows rapid identification of bacterial isolates and strengthens Hill Labs’ overall microbiological testing capabilities.
The Analytical Technology Microbiology & Molecular Biology team exemplifies innovation in action. By combining deep technical expertise with a collaborative mindset, they transform ideas into practical solutions that set industry benchmarks. From developing cutting-edge methods to upscaling the technical capabilities at Hill Labs their work consistently contributes to efficiency, sustainability, and scientific excellence.
