Brian Thomson

Brian Thomson has a diverse work experience spanning over two decades. Brian began their career at AgResearch as a Senior Science Technician, where they coordinated animal research trials focused on sterilizing the brushtail possum, a vertebrate pest in New Zealand. Brian also served as the animal facility manager during their time there.

After their tenure at AgResearch, Brian joined the Department of Conservation (DOC) as a Biodiversity Ranger. Brian worked in a close-knit team to protect critically endangered bird species and conducted various operations, including possum monitoring and poison control using vertebrate control agents.

Brian then transitioned to the DOC as a Technical Support Officer in the Animal Pests division. In this role, they provided advice and support for pesticide applications and audited pesticide control operations while ensuring compliance with relevant legislation.

Following their time at the DOC, Brian worked for the Ministry of Fisheries (MFish) as a Fisheries Observer. Brian embarked on extended fishing trips on commercial trawlers, collecting catch effort data, mitigating non-fish bycatch, and gathering biological specimens for research purposes.

After their stint at MFish, Brian moved to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) as a Project Manager within the Pesticides Branch of the Chemicals Regulation Directorate (CRD). Here, they oversaw the evaluation of agricultural pesticide and home garden products, coordinated product applications, and presented at specialist panel discussions.

Brian's most recent role was at Exponent, where they began as a Senior Scientist and later became a Managing Scientist. Their primary responsibilities included regulatory project management for plant protection products, preparing active substance dossiers, and overseeing the completion of draft registration reports. Brian also provided support and guidance to clients and colleagues on diverse projects related to active substances and EU regulations.

Overall, Brian Thomson's work experience highlights their extensive knowledge and expertise in regulatory project management, pesticide evaluation, and biodiversity conservation.

Brian Thomson began their education at Brentwood Primary School from 1981 to 1987. Brian then attended Fergusson Intermediate School from 1988 to 1989. After completing their intermediate education, Brian enrolled at Upper Hutt College from 1990 to 1994. Following their time at Upper Hutt College, Brian went on to study at Victoria University of Wellington, where they obtained a BSc Hons degree in Ecology and Zoology from 1995 to 1998.