Huntsman Marine Research Institute

Chris Bridger grew up in the island fishing community of Twillingate, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. He completed a Bachelor of Science (Honours in Marine Biology) from MUN about the same time that the groundfish stocks collapsed with extensive fishery closures and accompanying negative social impacts. This dramatic shift in outport life convinced him to pivot his graduate level studies (Advanced Diploma in Aquaculture and Master of Science in Aquaculture both from MUN) towards aquaculture, or farming of the oceans, as a more viable future-looking option for coastal working communities. He was twice enrolled in PhD level programs in Coastal Studies and International Economic Development but in both instances got bored and moved on before finishing.

A pivot to aquaculture opened many international opportunities with nearly four years living in Mississippi developing offshore aquaculture in the Gulf of Mexico, contracts working for both the New Brunswick Salmon Growers’ Association and the Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association, and nearly two years managing research projects in 26 less developed countries while working for a USAID-funded program based at Oregon State University. He moved to New Brunswick in 2006 to work in the local fish farming sector then transitioned in 2013 to manage research at The Huntsman Marine Science Centre while later also becoming its Executive Director in January 2020.

In 2005, he was the recipient of the Distinguished Early Career Award from the United States Aquaculture Society, a Chapter of the World Aquaculture Society. Bridger has published more than 50 peer-reviewed research papers, reports, chapters, and books, including Open Ocean Aquaculture: From Research to Commercial Reality published by the World Aquaculture Society, and provided more than 50 presentations at regional, national, and international venues on topics related to aquaculture industry development and its effects on the environment. He has served on numerous Technical Review Panels in both Canada and the USA.

CCNB - INNOV

Josée Landry is the Manager of the Innov – Bioeconomy division at the Collège communautaire du Nouveau-Brunswick (CCNB). This applied research division focuses on agriculture, agri-food, bioprocessing, and ecology. Josée was one of the founding members of the division when it was formalized in 2012, thanks to an NSERC and ACOA research grant, counting only 4 members at the time. Entering 2025, the multidisciplinary team has grown to include 18 full-time staff members and supports 10 to 15 college and university interns annually.

From 2018 to 2022, Josée pursued her passion for plants and took a new role as the Director of the New Brunswick Botanical Garden. Following four years of driving innovation in that position and gaining incremental knowledge on the tourism industry and non-profit organization reality, she returned to Innov–Bioeconomy to lead the division and bring it to its current phase of growth and impact.

Prior to her work at CCNB, Josée completed a Bachelor's degree in Microbiology and a Master’s degree in Plant Science from Université Laval, where she also spent four years as a research professional with an applied research chair specializing in peatland management and restoration. Combining applied research experience at both the university and the college levels enhances her ecosystem understanding and fosters stronger partnership opportunities.

The Innov – Bioeconomy division plays a key role in strengthening New Brunswick’s food resilience by supporting traditional sectors such as agriculture, as well as emerging fields like precision fermentation. The division is fully committed to meeting the innovation and service needs of industry, municipalities, and government departments. Each year, Innov – Bioeconomy supports between 40 and 70 businesses, and is recognized for its dynamic team and strong collaborative approach.

Northern Hardwoods Research Institute

As Executive Director of NHRI, Gaetan Pelletier leads the team and oversees all aspects of managing the applied research center. Beyond reporting to the board of directors, securing funding and fostering strategic partnerships, Gaetan is a forward-thinking director who actively collaborates with partners, engages with clients, and supports the team in delivering solutions.  

A forester and forest operations manager with over 40 years of experience, Gaetan has held leadership roles across the forest industry specializing in forest management, silviculture, and ecology. He has developed large-scale management strategies for planted stands, natural mixed woods, and hardwood forests. 

He holds a bachelor’s degree in management studies from the University of Waterloo, a diploma in Forest Technology specializing in Forest Management from CEGEP de Rimouski and has pursued a Master of Science in Forestry at Université de Moncton. His expertise and passion for sustainable forestry continues to drive NHRI’s mission.