In August 2020, cell biologist Bianca, took a massive leap of faith and founded CAA mid Melbourne lockdown. 

After learning about the potential for cellular agriculture, Bianca quickly realised that Australia lacked an ecosystem for the field—a clear gap she set out to fill. 

Through her strength in science communication and networks in the STEM sector, Bianca built a talented and motivated team around her, who in the early days began as volunteers, and began securing philanthropic funding to hire the founding team, including CAA’s inaugural CEO and COO.

Quite simply, CAA wouldn’t be here today without Bianca. We are incredibly grateful to her vision and her tenacity which set the foundations for where we are today. 

Bianca is currently working at Mission Barns, a San Francisco-based startup that's cultivating pork fat, as the Head of Special Projects and External Affairs.

Dr. Kate Secombe

Newsletter Coordinator & Content Developer
Kate is a scientist with a PhD in Medicine, where she examined how the gut microbiota contributes to the development of gastrointestinal side effects.

Joanne Tunna

Chief Operating Officer
Jo is the Chief Operating Officer of CAA and brings over 15 years of experience across government, non-profit and private sectors

Dr. Sam Perkins

Chief Executive Officer
CAA is a tight-knit and committed team led by Dr Sam Perkins, who has a diverse background spanning engineering and humanitarian sectors.

Jessica Freitag

Advocacy & Communications Coordinator
Jess brings knowledge of policy and communications to her role as Advocacy & Communications Coordinator.

Dr. Kate Secombe

Newsletter Coordinator & Content Developer
Kate is a scientist with a PhD in Medicine, where she examined how the gut microbiota contributes to the development of gastrointestinal side effects.

More Board Directors

View all team members

Elaine Siu

Director
Elaine is a veteran in the alternative proteins space, having served in multiple roles in pioneering organisations including The Good Food Institute.

Paul Oosting

Chairperson
Paul is well-versed in climate and environmental impact, having spent the last 15+ years working in impact for justice, nature, and climate solutions

Chloe Dempsey

Director
Chloe brings a range of experience in strategy, policy, and green technology to her role as Director.

Chloe Dempsey

Director
Chloe brings a range of experience in strategy, policy, and green technology to her role as Director.

Elaine Siu

Director
Elaine is a veteran in the alternative proteins space, having served in multiple roles in pioneering organisations including The Good Food Institute.

Dr. James Ryall

Advisor
James Ryall is a distinguished biotech consultant with over twenty years of expertise in cell biology, biomanufacturing, and regenerative medicine.

Glen Neal

Advisor
Glen has more than 20 years of experience in food regulation and biosecurity, which has developed his expertise in crisis and risk management.

Dr. Anna Barlow

Advisor
Anna is a seasoned expert in the food and agritech sectors, bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge to our advisory committee.

Dr. Anna Barlow

Advisor
Anna is a seasoned expert in the food and agritech sectors, bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge to our advisory committee.

Glen Neal

Advisor
Glen has more than 20 years of experience in food regulation and biosecurity, which has developed his expertise in crisis and risk management.

More Volunteers

View all team members
No items found.
No items found.
View all team members

Want to join our team?

Register your interest in paid and voluntary positions with CAA. Fill out the form below and we’ll be in touch.