Expert Spotlight: Stephen Pierson

Stephen Pierson - Columbia, MD

If you’ve ever wondered how Certis Biologicals turns complex science into reliable, effective biological solutions, much of that work begins in the lab with Stephen, Analytical Manager in Research and Development. 

Stephen plays a critical role in Certis Biologicals’ R&D efforts by developing and validating analytical methods, testing products across development stages, and analyzing genomes to better understand modes of action and biostimulant potential. With more than three years at Certis and a
background in analytical chemistry within the food and agriculture industries, he collaborates closely across teams to help ensure Certis’ biological products are scientifically sound and ready for the market. 

What is your role at Certis Biologicals, and how did you come to join the team?

I am currently the Analytical Manager, previously in the Analytical Chemist role. I have been at Certis for over 3.5 years. Before coming to Certis, I worked at a few companies in the food/agriculture industry. Right before coming to this job, I was in Texas working at a food testing company where I was responsible for method development and validation testing on different food commodities.  
Some of those methods include testing a full pesticide screen (~400 pesticides) on different fruits and vegetables using both LCMS and GCMS.  

During this time, my wife was completing a postdoc and later accepted a remote position with the state of Virginia. As I explored opportunities that aligned well with our professional paths, I found this role at Certis in the DMV area, which felt like an ideal match. 

What drew you to work in the biologicals/agriculture industry?

I am from Clovis, California which is part of California’s central valley and one of the most prolific farming regions in the entire world. My middle school and high school had an ag farm on campus and was part of our curriculum. I guess you can say it was fate that I would end up in this industry. 

What does a typical day look like for you?

My days vary widely, and I love that about my job. Some days I’m developing methods for looking at different metabolites. Somedays I am doing routine testing on different products we are working on for R&D and/or production.
Somedays I am assembling genomes and looking for modes of action or possible biostimulant traits. Other days I am helping regulatory with new product registrations and renewals for existing products. I am presented with a variety of problems that need solving, and I enjoy the challenge. 

What’s your favorite part about working at Certis Biologicals?

Working with other R&D members. We are a pretty close group and we have a lot of fun together, it’s just a good environment to be in. 

How do you stay up to date with innovations or changes in your field?

I read a lot of papers. There’s a quote that I like from an old school chemist named Frank Westheimer: “A month in the laboratory can often save an hour in the library”.
I have always found that this quote holds remarkable insight.

What’s your favorite Certis product and why?

If I had to choose, probably BoteGHA® ES. It has one of the most interesting modes of actions by eating the host pest from the inside and is a remarkably stable product. 

Can you describe your current role and the focus of your work within the R&D team?

Developing analytical methods, testing our products with those methods, analyzing the genomes of our different strains, helping find new modes of action for our products (both pesticidal and bio stimulatory), help come up with new product concepts, assist regulatory with analytical and genomic expertise for submissions and requests from regulatory agencies, and analytical testing for our two US based production facilities when necessary. 

What are some key challenges in developing effective biological solutions compared to synthetic products?

I think developing a product that is stable and has broad spectrum efficacy is
always the main challenge when developing a biological product. Unlike synthetic products, many biologicals are living organisms and do not have an infinite
shelf life. However, some dormant spores can live for an impressive amount of time without food. 

Our Beauveria products are a prime example of that, with dormant spores being viable past 24 months given our proprietary formulation and appropriate storage conditions. Beauveria also has exceptional control of sucking insect’s life cycle, however, it may take a bit more time than a synthetic product to see control given the mode of action. While it may not have the initial knock down power a synthetic product may have, it also preserves beneficial insects and does not leave questionable residues on the plant which is better for the consumer and the environment.

What’s your go-to way to unwind and recharge after a busy week?

I usually get some form of exercise daily, whether it is lifting, skating, or going hiking. Being physically exhausted is a good way to get great sleep and feel recharged.

Whether he’s developing new analytical methods, supporting regulatory submissions, or uncovering insights from genomes and metabolites, Stephen’s work helps ensure Certis Biologicals deliver reliable, science-driven solutions. We’re grateful for the expertise, discipline, and collaborative mindset he brings to R&D each day, and for the impact his work has on strengthening the products and innovations that support our mission. 

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About Certis Biologicals

Certis Biologicals is the leading developer, manufacturer, and distributor of biological innovation such as biofungicides, bioinsecticides, bionematicides, bioherbicides, and plant health-promoting products, servicing the agriculture, turf, greenhouse, home, and garden markets globally. With a proven, broad portfolio of products and a continuous pursuit of new solutions for conventional and organic production, Certis Biologicals is a leader and partner in sustainable crop production trusted by farmers in the U.S. and more than 50 countries across the world. To learn more about Certis Biologicals and their portfolio of proven solutions, visit  CertisBio.com.