Invaio appoints Magalie Guilhabert as Chief Science Officer

Invaio Sciences has appointed Magalie Guilhabert as Chief Science Officer, bringing in a former Ginkgo Bioworks and Bayer executive to oversee research and development as the company broadens its focus on biological alternatives to conventional crop protection.

Dr. Guilhabert, who holds a Ph.D. in plant pathology from the University of California, Davis, has more than 20 years of experience in agricultural research and operations. She most recently led the agriculture business unit at Ginkgo Bioworks, where she managed a team of 100 scientists and a $41 million revenue target. Before that, she held senior roles at Bayer, including as global head of microbial research technologies in the company’s biologics division.

At Invaio, Guilhabert will be responsible for guiding scientific strategy and leading R&D programs aimed at developing environmentally sustainable crop inputs. Her appointment signals a continued push by the company to commercialize biological solutions amid growing regulatory pressure on synthetic pesticides and increasing demand for more sustainable farming practices.

Founded by Flagship Pioneering—the venture firm behind companies such as Indigo Ag and Pivot Bio—Invaio develops crop health technologies that leverage synthetic biology, microbiome research, and precision delivery systems. The company is positioning its pipeline to meet rising consumer and regulatory expectations while improving productivity for growers.

“Magalie’s leadership experience and track record in microbial and biological technologies make her well suited to help advance our scientific agenda,” said Amy O’Shea, chief executive of Invaio and a CEO-partner at Flagship Pioneering.

Guilhabert has been awarded 15 patents and currently serves on the board of the International Alliance for Phytobiome Research. Her career began at AgraQuest, a biopesticide company later acquired by Bayer, where she contributed to early developments in plant-microbe interaction research.

“This is a pivotal time for agriculture,” Guilhabert said in a statement. “Invaio’s focus on biological innovation aligns with my interest in delivering sustainable solutions that are also commercially viable.”

Invaio has announced several collaborations in recent years, including a partnership with Fundecitrus in Brazil to target citrus greening disease using peptide-based treatments. The company is part of a broader shift toward “low-residue” crop inputs, as agricultural producers adapt to evolving environmental standards and consumer preferences.