Published Mar 11, 2025
Dr Kelly Styles is a researcher turned entrepreneur part of Wellington UniVentures’ new spin-out, Bontia Bio. In 2024, he joined our team on a special ‘researcher in residence’ internship to learn more about the business side of running a scientific enterprise.
Kelly is an accomplished scientist whose skills will be important for the technical and commercial success of Bontia Bio. As part of his PhD in Professor Emily Parker’s lab at the Ferrier Research Institute, Kelly researched bioactive natural products arising from New Zealand’s unique fungal species - the same technology he’s now helping bring to market with Bontia Bio.
Kelly has always been keen on using science to create sustainable and natural solutions to problems in health and agriculture. Before embarking on a PhD, Kelly gained experience doing research for public good as a scientist with Biotelliga, which develops fungal-derived crop protection technologies.
Now, Kelly is Scientist & Co-founder at Bontia Bio, where he’s helping lead the new company though one of it’s most exciting phases: launch to market.
In a short interview, Kelly shares how his internship at Wellington UniVentures helped shape his approach to entrepreneurship.
Interview with Dr Kelly Styles
Why were you interested in an internship with WUV?
I viewed an internship with WUV as an excellent opportunity to develop the skills needed to translate research from the lab to the commercial world. As a researcher currently supporting the spinning out of a biotech startup, Bontia Bio, this internship came at the perfect time to support our goals!
What were the highlights from your time at WUV?
A key highlight was attending the Movac Deep Tech Jam, where I gained insights from founders like Fady Mishriki (Proxi), Hanie Yee (Alimetry), and Sean Simpson (LanzaTech). Hearing their personal journeys and the challenges was both inspiring and eye-opening. Conversations with other founders at various stages of the startup journey also provided valuable perspectives. As Movac aptly put it, the commercialisation process “is f*cking hard.”
What did you learn that you’ll take forward in your life as an entrepreneurial researcher?
The most valuable lesson I learned during my time at WUV is the importance of being open and transparent, while also knowing how to strategically play your cards.
How do tech transfer offices support entrepreneurial researchers like yourself?
I think a lot of researchers want to see their work leave the lab, but the process can be daunting and complex. Turning research into a commercially viable product often requires additional development, IP protection, and a clear path to attract investment. Tech transfer offices act as a crucial bridge, guiding researchers through this process, providing expertise, and helping to develop their mahi into its ultimate form.
What’s next for you, and how will WUV support you?
Bontia Bio is currently in its Seed funding round and this will be used to perform the technical and IP work we need to make ourselves more attractive to future investors. I envision us working closely with WUV as our colleagues there continue to be both a a trusted source of advice and an integral part of Bontia Bio and its success.
Bontia Bio team (credit: Sprout)
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