Q. Your career spans regulatory affairs, advocacy, and leadership in the biologicals sector. Could you share the key moments that shaped your professional journey?
Beginning a career in academia offered inspiration through its vast theoretical possibilities, yet it also brought frustration due to the limited opportunity for practical application. Very early on, it became clear that work needed to lead to tangible outcomes. A longstanding passion for sustainability—and a conviction that preserving our habitat is a fundamental human responsibility—reinforced this direction.
The moment biocontrol entered the picture, it revealed a pragmatic, science-based path capable of reconciling productivity with sustainability. However, it also became apparent that these solutions were widely misunderstood. Many outside the sector underestimated biocontrol, which led to my engagement in advocacy through IBMA, building trust, promoting proportionate policies, and educating stakeholders about safer alternatives.
Q. Regulatory frameworks for biocontrol products differ significantly across regions. What have been some of the most complex challenges?
The biggest challenges arise in countries without a clear definition of biocontrol or a dedicated regulatory framework. Too often, regulators try to fit BioAg products into systems designed for chemistry, which simply does not work.
“Biocontrol products act through biology, not chemistry, and forcing them into conventional pesticide frameworks creates barriers.”
The solution lies in education: building awareness of the science and helping regulators understand that “fit-for-purpose” requirements are needed. Step by step, this approach has helped evaluators adapt chemical-based systems to biological realities.
Q. What are the greatest obstacles to achieving regulatory alignment worldwide for semiochemicals?
Thanks to the combined efforts of the industry and IBMA, data requirements for semiochemicals are becoming more harmonized. The next crucial step is achieving global recognition and acceptance of evaluations conducted by other jurisdictions. It is unnecessary to conduct the same whole evaluation multiple times for the same active substance.
The main obstacle remains distrust. Many authorities insist on reassessing dossiers even when evaluations are robust. If regulators are serious about accelerating innovation, they must move beyond this. Semiochemicals are the perfect pilot to prove that regulatory cooperation is both possible and beneficial.
Q. How do semiochemical solutions contribute to the transformation toward more sustainable farming systems?
Biocontrol is not optional; it is indispensable. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is the only viable path forward. Semiochemicals, such as sex pheromones for mating disruption, reduce pest populations year after year, significantly lowering the need for chemical treatments. Because they are species-specific, they protect beneficial insects and biodiversity, helping us move from short-term fixes to long-term stability.
Q. As a woman in agricultural leadership, what unique challenges and opportunities have you experienced?
At times, the skepticism directed at biocontrol products mirrored the skepticism encountered personally—often treated as “clueless until proven otherwise.” These moments encouraged deeper learning and stronger skills. They also shaped my conviction about leadership: it should never be dismissive or condescending.
“Leadership, at its core, is about creating healthy professional habitats—spaces where people feel valued, respected, and empowered. Just as biodiversity strengthens ecosystems, diversity of people strengthens organizations.”
Q. What advice would you offer to young women seeking to thrive in the BioAg industry?
First and foremost: work hard and truly know your field. Competence is the strongest foundation for credibility. Do not hesitate to ask questions or seek out mentors; nobody succeeds alone. Stay open-minded and be willing to challenge assumptions. But remember, growth takes time. Take the time to build a solid base of knowledge and experience before trying to run.
Q. Which emerging trends or regulatory evolutions will most influence the industry in the coming years?
Fit-for-purpose regulation is essential. The future must be pragmatic; bureaucracy cannot be allowed to suffocate innovation. What we need are regulatory systems that are agile, adaptive to new technologies, and more globally aligned. Cutting review timelines and eliminating redundant national reassessments should be a priority to ensure growers worldwide benefit quickly from safe solutions.
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