Dr. Tom Williams and the Vision Behind Number 8 Bio Innovation
Dr Tom Williams isn’t your typical scientist. With a career that combines pioneering research and entrepreneurial ambition, he has become a leading figure in tackling two of the world’s most urgent challenges—climate change and agricultural productivity. Central to this journey is the Number 8 Bio innovation, which reflects Tom’s relentless curiosity, scientific brilliance, and steadfast commitment to delivering solutions that support both farmers and the planet. From his early academic days to co-founding Number 8 Bio, his work continues to drive meaningful change on a global scale.
Dr. Tom Williams’ Journey from Academics to Entrepreneurship
Raised amidst New Zealand’s dairy farming region, Dr. Tom Williams witnessed firsthand the environmental challenges caused by agricultural methane emissions. This early exposure sparked his ambition for creating science-driven solutions to build a more sustainable planet.
Tom’s academic foundation began with a degree in biochemistry followed by a master’s in microbiology at the University of Waikato. During his studies, he discovered synthetic biology—a field that would transform his career and ultimately define his life’s work. This led him to complete a PhD in Synthetic Biology at the University of Queensland, focusing on engineering yeast metabolism and physiology.
Postdoctoral research further honed Tom’s expertise, particularly his work on the Yeast 2.0 Project at Macquarie University. Partnering with leading scientists, he explored synthetic genomes, biosensors, and pathways for carbon metabolism. Combining these experiences, Tom understood that science alone wouldn’t solve global challenges—actionable, scalable commercial solutions were necessary.
This vision became a reality in 2022 when Dr. Williams co-founded Number 8 Bio with Dr. Alex Carpenter, taking a bold step from academia to entrepreneurship.
Number 8 Bio Innovation: Decarbonising Agriculture
At its core, Number 8 Bio exists to solve one of agriculture’s biggest challenges—methane emissions from livestock. These emissions account for nearly 15% of global greenhouse gases. Methane, while short-lived in the atmosphere, is 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide over 20 years. This makes it a critical target in the fight against climate change.
Under Tom’s leadership, Number 8 Bio developed BetterFeed™, an innovative feed additive designed to reduce methane emissions by up to 90%. With just 25 grams added to cattle feed daily, BetterFeed offers a dual advantage—lowered methane emissions and enhanced livestock productivity, benefiting both farmers and the environment.
“Our mission,” Tom explains, “is to decarbonise agriculture without reinventing food or farming practices. Farmers don’t need added complexity; they need simple, effective solutions—and that’s what we provide.”
Scalable Solutions for Global Impact
Number 8 Bio has shattered the traditional approach to methane mitigation with its focus on scalability. Unlike seaweed farming and other complex methods, BetterFeed leverages synthetic chemistry, making it economically viable to distribute globally.
The efficiency of their process means a single production facility can supply feed for entire agricultural regions like Australia and California, ensuring the solution is accessible to farmers at all levels.
From Science to Commercialisation
Tom’s leadership reflects his ability to turn academic breakthrough into real-world impact. Spun out of Macquarie University’s Australian Genome Foundry (AGF) and the ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Number 8 Bio had access to state-of-the-art tools for genetic engineering and rapid prototype testing.
With pre-seed funding of $1.7 million and now an impressive $7 million secured in seed funding, the company is scaling up manufacturing facilities in Sydney while conducting trials globally. Number 8 Bio’s collaborations with organisations like Agriculture Victoria and Monash University are a testament to its commitment to validated, scientific progress.
Cutting-Edge Solutions Driving Productivity and Sustainability
Methane-Reduction with a Twist
Number 8 Bio’s dual-action feed additives offer more than just methane reduction. By intelligently redirecting metabolic pathways in livestock, they also enhance growth, milk, and wool production. This ensures that while farmers reduce emissions, they also see a tangible return on investment (a key incentive for widespread adoption).
Gas Fermentation Technology
Beyond reducing methane on farms, Dr. Williams and Number 8 Bio are exploring gas fermentation technology. This pioneering approach creates microorganisms that can thrive on methane or carbon dioxide. These microorganisms hold game-changing potential, helping produce carbon-negative food ingredients while drastically reducing water, fertiliser, and land requirements.
Building a Global Decarbonisation Movement
Dr. Williams is clear on one point—climate change demands urgent attention. “We’re not just building a product; we’re shaping an ecosystem.” Number 8 Bio isn’t focused solely on scientific solutions but on fostering a global movement that empowers farmers and stakeholders at every level to act for the climate.
Through partnerships, open dialogues with policymakers, and continued innovation, Tom and his team are laying the groundwork for decarbonisation at scale. Number 8 Bio is already a leader within the synthetic biology and agtech sectors. They are leveraging innovation to create agricultural systems suited to the future.
A Vision for a Climate-Resilient Future
Dr Tom Williams’ transition from academia to entrepreneurship reflects not just a personal career decision but a global call to action. His pioneering work at Number 8 Bio innovation offers a clear roadmap for tackling livestock methane emissions while ensuring economic and agricultural sustainability.
Number 8 Bio innovation’s cutting-edge technologies, like BetterFeed™, showcase the power of synthetic biology to address real-world problems. By blending scientific excellence, visionary leadership, and practical solutions, Tom is redefining how we think about agriculture in the 21st century. This, combined with scalable technologies, will pave the way for carbon-negative food systems and a climate-resilient future.
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