Scientific Advances 6-week Course

Dr Lynley Crawford is a passionate advocate for sustainable innovation in the plastics industry, bringing both technical expertise and a forward-thinking perspective to one of today’s most important environmental conversations. With a background in science and application development, Lynley has built her career around understanding how plastics can be used more responsibly—balancing their undeniable benefits with the need for smarter, more sustainable solutions.

A natural communicator, Lynley is driven by a desire to shift perceptions and spark meaningful change. While she is currently expanding her commercial and business skillset to take a more holistic approach to industry challenges, her technical roots remain at the heart of everything she does. Known for her energy and enthusiasm, Lynley is committed to engaging others in conversations that inspire progress—because, as she puts it, “you can take the girl out of technical, but you can’t take the technical out of the girl.”

SESSION ABSTRACT: Myth Busting Plastics - Unsure what to believe when it comes to plastics? Are they really bad for our health? Explore some of the science behind them and understand why plastics are not as evil as some would have you to believe. Some of the common myths we will look at: baby bottles shouldn't be made of plastic. Plastics can't be put in the microwave. Microplastics are in our brain.

John Humphrey has spent more than 30 years working at the forefront of telecommunications, with a particular focus on space and satellite technologies. He is fascinated by the intersection of emerging technology and real-world market needs, and has built a career helping bridge the gap between innovation and practical application across New Zealand and internationally.

As the leader of Apogee Networks, John has worked closely with government and global partners, including contributing to New Zealand’s filings with the International Telecommunication Union. His experience spans a wide range of organisations and ventures in the satellite and connectivity space, and he continues to be involved in new technology start-ups shaping the future of communication. Based on the Tāwharanui Peninsula, John combines global industry insight with a grounded, local perspective.

SESSION ABSTRACT: Space and Satellite Technology: Where We Are Now - and What Comes Next - In this session, John Humphrey provides a clear and accessible review of the current state of the space and satellite industry - both in New Zealand and globally. Looking ahead, John explores what the future may hold in this rapidly developing field, and how these advancements could shape the way we live, work, and connect. From everyday communication to the experiences of future generations, this session offers a thoughtful perspective on how developments in space technology may increasingly influence our lives and those of our children.

New speakers coming soon