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Biocontrol for a brighter future.

Founded in 2017, Agragene's mission is to create insect control solutions that protect crops, the people who grow and eat them, and the planet we all share.

Next-Generation Crop Protection

Agragene's Precision-Guided Sterile Insect Technology (pgSIT) provides effective, cost-efficient crop insect pest control, preserving ecological balance while reducing dependence on traditional insecticides.

 

Our goal is not only to control pests, but to support a better model for agriculture — one that protects yields while caring for the people and ecosystems connected to food production.

Our Impact

Agragene's technology platform (KNOCKOUT) is being developed for a 2027 limited launch* to:

  • Combat over $1 billion damage to berries and cherries in the US and Canada by Spotted Wing Drosophila

  • Reduce dependence on traditional insecticides

  • Work alongside existing integrated pest management (IPM) programs to maximize yield protection

  • Have no impact on beneficial insects, such as bees and ladybugs

  • Protect growers, workers, and surrounding communities

  • Support a more sustainable food production ecosystem

*Pending state and federal regulatory approval

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"KNOCKOUT is biocontrol made better—a solution for heathier yields, healthier foods, even a healthier planet.”

Bryan Witherbee, President and CEO

Our Team

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Bryan Witherbee

CEO

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Ani Eswar

Director of Customer Operations

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Maureen Bourner

Senior Scientist

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Shelby Witherbee

Procurement

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Anne Sellman

Associate Scientist

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Matt Helms

CCO

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Lisa Meihls

Insectary Optimization and Quality Lead

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Kalindu Ramyasoma

Senior Scientist

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Esha Sharma

Scientist

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Lupe Gamez

Associate Scientist

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Stephanie Gamez

R&D Director

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Stacy Deeds

Director of Insectary Operations

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Erika Bueno

Senior Scientist

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Emilie Saa

Scientist

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Delaney Jones

Associate Scientist

Board of Directors

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Carl Casale

Chairman

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Jim McCarter

Member

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Ida Posner

Member

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Lee Vetsch

Member

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Mark Holekamp

Member

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Melissa Grizzle

Member

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Robert Schmidt

Member

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Bryan Witherbee

CEO

Our investors share our vision for a healthier and brighter future

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