Dr Andrea Byrom is trained as a scientist in wildlife population ecology and held various research leadership roles at Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research for over 20 years, including co-Director of New Zealand’s Biological Heritage National Science Challenge. 

Andrea is currently a Board member of the Environmental Protection Authority and a Trustee for the Predator-Free 2050 Trust and Frozen Ark Limited. She also holds an advisory role as a board member for New Zealand’s Science Media Centre and was formerly on the governance group for Predator Free Hawke’s Bay. 

Andrea has a deep strategic knowledge of the New Zealand research, science and innovation sector and how it connects with regional and central government agencies. She values evidence-based decision-making and has a deep understanding of, and commitment to, Māori values, knowledge, and tikanga.