Spherelose

🫧 A World First: AUT PhD Student’s Nanoparticle Discovery 🫧 Pursuing a PhD at #AUTuni is a transformative journey fostering academic and personal growth. With innovative supervisors like Dr. Jack Chen, students can excel in research. One remarkable student is Dr. Andres Tiban Anrango, who developed novel cellulose-based nanoparticles during his PhD. Andres was the first to create cellulose nanoparticles with tuneable amphiphilicity—particles that can adjust their affinity for water and oil. These biodegradable nanoparticles are efficient emulsifiers, which allow oil and water to mix and are used in products like cosmetics and food. Early results in this research attracted the attention of AUT Ventures. Seeing the significant market potential of cellulose-based emulsifiers made from wood pulp, AUT Ventures collaborated with Jack to explore applications, leading to the Spherelose® project. Jack secured funding for Andres’s PhD and later won MBIE Smart Ideas funding. Jack credits Andres for his role in the research: “Andres is a driven, intelligent young researcher who has tackled this scientific challenge with rigour and enthusiasm. His problem-solving skills and dedication to this project are the secret behind the success of Spherelose.” A major milestone was filing their first patent in 2021. While Andres has completed his PhD and works in Spain, he remains a co-founder and technical advisor supporting Dr. Mohinder Naiya, Dr. Victor Yim, PhD, and Josh Van Dongen as they refine the process and prepare samples for global chemical companies. A spinout company was founded and will soon seek venture capital investment. Andres encourages students interested in commercialisation: "The experience offers the opportunity to transform ideas or lab work into tangible products. This journey pushes you out of your comfort zone, helping you acquire new, in-demand skills. It expands your network, creating new opportunities and easing the transition into post-academic careers." Hannah Buckley, Head of the School of Science, believes Andres’ experience showcases AUT’s reputation for innovation and real-world impact: “What Jack Chen and Andres Tiban have accomplished through a commercialisation lens is incredible. Spherelose® is disruptive chemtech at its finest, and exactly what we want AUT to be known for.” AUT Ventures is dedicated to bridging the gap between university research and real-world impact. Andres’ journey with Spherelose® exemplifies how we support students in turning innovative ideas into impactful solutions. Venture Director Chris Hill praises the project: “Jack and Andres’ journey from research to real-world application is a testament to their hard work and determination. They actively sought industry engagement and outside feedback early in their journey, leading them to pivot toward the product we now know as Spherelose®. It’s fantastic to work with such pioneering scientists and help them generate real-world impact from their work.”