PS Seminar Series: The Purple Tomato- bringing genetic engineering from Lab to Market

The Purple Tomato is a groundbreaking example of how biotechnology can translate scientific innovation into real-world impact. This talk traces the journey from fundamental plant science and the development of anthocyanin-rich tomatoes to regulatory approval (including Australia), commercialization, and consumer adoption.

schedule Date & time
Date/time
6 Nov 2026 3:30pm - 6 Nov 2026 4:30pm
person Speaker

Speakers

Nathan Pumplin, PhD, CEO, Norfolk Healthy Produce
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Daniel Cowan-Turner

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Description

ABSTRACT

The Purple Tomato is a groundbreaking example of how biotechnology can translate scientific innovation into real-world impact. This talk traces the journey from fundamental plant science and the development of anthocyanin-rich tomatoes to regulatory approval (including Australia), commercialization, and consumer adoption. Along the way, it explores the scientific, entrepreneurial, and practical challenges of bringing a novel food product from the laboratory to the market—and the opportunities for biotechnology to create more nutritious, sustainable, and appealing foods.
 

BIOGRAPHY

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Nathan Pumplin


Nathan is an entrepreneur and scientist, with 20 years experience in commercialization and R&D aimed at increasing the quality and sustainability of food. Prior to founding Norfolk Healthy Produce, he served in management and business development roles with AgBiome and Joyn Bio (a Bayer Crop Science Joint Venture), two companies developing microbial-based alternatives to ag chemicals. He earned a PhD in plant genetics from Cornell University and led research projects at ETH Zurich and UC Davis.

Location

Please note: this seminar will be held in the Slatyer Seminar Room and via Zoom, details are included below.

Slatyer Seminar Room, N2011,
Level 2, RN Robertson Bldg (46)

Please click the link below to join the webinar: 

https://anu.zoom.us/j/84339340458?pwd=q7Kx5rZzYaOSSDo3Ewm7hyCnzhobOn.1

Webinar ID: 843 3934 0458
Passcode: 849446

Canberra time: please check your local time & date if you are watching from elsewhere

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