Meet our team

The CAA team is a wonderful demonstration of what’s possible when a diverse group of people are aligned with our values and intrinsically motivated to drive positive change.

Staff

Our team includes individuals skilled in science, communications, sustainability, policy, and engineering who are passionate about creating a more ethical, accessible and sustainable food system.

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.

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

Victoria Taylor

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

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.

Board of Directors

CAA is governed by its diverse and highly skilled Board of Directors, who hold a wealth of experience across the cellular agriculture, alternative proteins, and climate tech ecosystems.

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.

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. 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. Bianca Le

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

Advisors

Our advisors enhance CAA's subject matter expertise in areas such as the science of cell cultivation and fermentation, food systems regulation, fast-moving consumer goods, and the start-up ecosystem.

Dr. James Ryall

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

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.

Volunteers

Our volunteers generously donate their time, providing additional technical expertise and project support to CAA.

Lisa Musgrove

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

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.