Elaine is a veteran in the alternative proteins space, having served in multiple roles in pioneering organisations to advance solutions that mitigate the current challenges associated with our food system.

Elaine was the founding managing director of Good Food Institute APAC, and then the chief innovation officer of Material Innovation Initiative. Both organisations played a major role incubating new sectors and ecosystems that reimagine animal-based products and supply alternatives, including cellular agriculture. Elaine is currently pursuing a PhD at King’s College London to research and reflect on industry incubation strategies that can create better alternatives for the world.

Prior to dedicating her second career to helping animals, Elaine was a solicitor for over a decade specialising in IPOs, M&As, financial structured products and investment funds.

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.

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.

Jessica Freitag

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

Victoria Taylor

Head of Sector Building & Advocacy
Victoria has 25 years experience in policy, engagement and governance within agriculture and primary industries.

Kim Tonnet

Head of Regulatory Affairs
Kim is a regulatory & government relations professional with over 30 years of experience across food manufacturing, alt proteins, and cell ag.

More Board Directors

View all team members

Dr. Carin Basirun

Secretary
Carin holds a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, with a focus on cardiac mechanotransduction and over five years of experience in tissue engineering.

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.

Dr. Bianca Le

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

Dr. Carin Basirun

Secretary
Carin holds a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, with a focus on cardiac mechanotransduction and over five years of experience in tissue engineering.

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. 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. James Ryall

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

More Volunteers

View all team members

Lisa Musgrove

Science & Technology Lead
Lisa is a third-year PhD candidate investigating stem cell sources for cultivated crustacean meat.

Lisa Musgrove

Science & Technology Lead
Lisa is a third-year PhD candidate investigating stem cell sources for cultivated crustacean meat.
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.