How Jooules came to be and the people who make it possible.
Jooules emerged in 2021 from discussions on how to address sustainability challenges within the food sector while meeting the demands of a growing global population. Exploring various avenues such as precision fermentation, we eventually uncovered a more efficient method of protein production leveraging bioscience by utilising microbes and gaseous fermentation.
Established amidst one of the world's most sustainable agricultural landscapes, New Zealand, Jooules strategically leverages the nation's expertise in food and agriculture. Collaborations with leading universities and institutions such as SCION, located in Rotorua, enable us to refine our technology within cutting-edge scientific facilities.
Founder, CEO
Founder, CEO
BBS (Accounting & Finance)
As founder + CEO of Jooules David brings a wealth of both commercial and startup experience to the team. His career spans a wide range of enterprises from world-leading financial institution Goldman Sachs to energy sector player Contact Energy to professional services firm PWC where he undertook assignments in several key public sector agencies successfully leading several large and complex assignments involving critical public and private sector stakeholder groups. David has also been at the forefront of several startups during his career, including in energy, food tech and utilities. In his spare time David is an avid hunter gatherer, something which matches well with his passion for good food and cooking.
Chief Science Officer (CSO)
Chief Science Officer (CSO)
PhD, BSc (Hons) (Biotechnology)
Luke holds a PhD in Biotechnology from Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington, and has a concurrent position as a Scientist in Synthetic Biology at Te Kāuru - Ferrier Research Institute. His previous research experience has involved synthetic biology development of microbial strains to produce high-value molecules across different compound classes, in both bacteria and fungi. Part of this work included the development of bioreactor fermentation systems moving from lab scale towards commercial production. Luke enjoys getting lost in the hills around Wellington, and taking his work home with him with sourdough and other ferments bubbling away in his kitchen.
Head of Finance and Operations
Head of Finance and Operations
BA (Hons) Accounting, ACA (ICAEW), ACT (UK)
Leigh is a Chartered Accountant and Corporate Treasurer and has worked in Europe, the U.S. and New Zealand. Her broad business experience comes from various financial roles within multinationals, government, SMEs and not-for-profits. She is also interested in good governance, ethics and sustainability. Leigh is passionate about supporting start-ups and not-for-profits so they can thrive. She says working with Jooules offers her a great opportunity to help this climate positive start-up become a successful and profitable business. Outside of work, Leigh loves the outdoors, tramping in the hills around Wellington, walking her dogs and dreaming about her next travel adventure!
Research Scientist
Research Scientist
PhD (Plant Biology & Genomics), MSc
Usama has a PhD in plant evolution and genomics, and is always eager to solve scientific problems. He comes from a diverse scientific background and feels strongly about making a positive impact on the environment. At Jooules Usama gets to merge his love for problem solving and sustainability. On a weekend he can be found hiking or dreaming about food.
Design & Comms
Design & Comms
BDI (Communication Design & Marketing)
Olivia is a Communication Designer and Marketer with experience in branding, web design, digital marketing (including SEO) and illustration. Her work aims to bridge the gap between aesthetics and functionality, crafting designs that not only engage but also communicate effectively. She likes to focus on creating visual narratives that resonate with people by using strategic design principles and ensuring her work meets the needs of the target audience. In her spare time, Olivia enjoys painting, cooking, reading, and going on walks around Wellington.
