Vineland Research and Innovation Centre (Vineland) has announced that Mike Pautler, PhD is the new director, commercialization. In this role, he will lead Vineland’s refreshed vision and enhanced resourcing for the commercialization portfolio. Vineland’s commercialization portfolio covers a diverse range of innovations ranging from tree fruit to vegetable seeds to robotic harvesters. 

Pautler joined Vineland in 2013 as research scientist in applied genomics, leading a program in horticultural trait development. His team was engaged in next-generation DNA sequencing, marker development and plant phenotyping in a wide range of crop species. Pautler led the creation and rapid growth of Platform Genetics, a spin-off company of Vineland. In this role, he was responsible for scientific operations as well as international business development for the corporation.

Previous to Vineland, Pautler completed his PhD from the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in New York. He has authored scientific papers in high-profile journals such as Plant Cell and Genome Research and patented a gene that controls yield in corn. 

“It is my sincere pleasure to announce Pautler’s appointment to Director, Commercialization,” says Dr. Ian Potter, president and CEO. “Mike’s experience in strategic business planning and client relationship management will enhance Vineland’s commercialization efforts, allowing us to realize the full potential and benefits of the program.” 

Source:  Vineland Research and Innovation Centre April 1, 2025 news release