The National Research Council (NRC) is the Government of Canada’s premier research organization supporting industrial innovation, the advancement of knowledge, technology development and fulfilling government mandates. The NRC plays a unique role in Canada, undertaking large-scale mission-oriented R&D programs through a national network of experts and facilities. The Aquatic and Crop Resource Development (ACRD) Research Centre is NRC’s leading Research Centre supporting the bio-economy. With expertise in agricultural, industrial, and marine biotechnologies as well as genomics and bioinformatics, ACRD provides cutting-edge scientific advances, technical services, technology development support, and credible scientific advice to Canadian stakeholders transforming bio‐based resources into sustainable, high‐value products.