Kieran Elborough
Dr. Elborough is a seasoned science leader with more than 30 years of expertise in research, science technology development, strategic leadership, organisational management across research institutions as well as the commercial sector. His career includes senior and executive roles, most recently as Group General Manager of Science Technology Development at a New Zealand Crown Research Institute for six years. In this capacity, he led key initiatives and investments across innovation, risk management, organisational restructuring, and strategic growth, advancing the institute’s impact on both domestic and international markets.
His broad-ranging expertise spans scientific disciplines, financial management, and governance, with significant experience in a quasi-judicial regulatory role. He was appointed by successive New Zealand Ministers of the Environment for several terms to serve on the Environmental Risk Management Authority (now the Environmental Protection Authority), providing guidance on environmental impacts and compliance of science within the law of New Zealand. In his regulatory role, he provided expert counsel on high-stakes decisions affecting New Zealand’s environmental standards, a responsibility that highlights his capability to navigate complex legislative landscapes with scientific insight.
With a proven track record in managing diverse and remote teams, Kieran has successfully driven operational efficiency, enhanced cross-functional collaboration, and forged strategic partnerships that achieved sustainable outcomes. His leadership style balances empathetic but strong operational management with a focus on innovation, continuously seeking ways to optimise workflows and bolster team performance across multiple locations.
He has also served on the boards of various organisations, contributing his knowledge in corporate governance, technology commercialization, and strategic advisement. His governance roles have further solidified his commitment to advancing scientific and commercial innovation in a structured, compliant, and forward-thinking manner. Kieran’s deep industry insight, combined with his leadership in governance and regulatory roles, positions him as a valuable asset in guiding organizations toward impactful scientific and technological breakthroughs
Kieran holds a DPhil in Cancer Biochemistry (Homologous Recombination) from Imperial College London and a BSc Hons in Microbial Genetics from the University of Dundee. Before relocating to New Zealand in 2000, he spent five years as a lecturer at a UK university, where he honed his skills in teaching (Biomedical Sci, Cancer Biology, Cell signalling and Plant Molecular Biology) and academic leadership/research. This blend of academic and industry experience enables him to bridge the gap between research and commercial applications effectively.