About Me

RUSLAN ANDREW POLKO

Biotechnologist | Black Soldier Fly Specialist | Waste-to-Value Innovator

The Parallel Paths of Science and Climbing

I never expected my two passions – rock climbing and biotechnology – to share so much common ground. While training, I learned that success comes from testing small moves before committing, and trusting the process even when the next hold isn’t visible. These lessons became unexpectedly valuable when I first worked with black soldier flies in the lab. Just like analyzing a climbing route, I found myself meticulously studying their biology – how they process waste, resist pathogens, and convert low-value organics into protein. The more I worked with these remarkable insects, the clearer it became: nature had already designed elegant solutions to our waste and food security challenges. My role wasn’t to force artificial systems, but to understand and optimize what these organisms do naturally. Whether scaling a cliff face or scaling up BSF production, the principles remain the same: careful observation, incremental progress, and working in harmony with natural systems rather than against them.

From Lab Research to Real Impact

At Protasco Biotech, I:

  • Process Optimization: Engineered high-yield substrates that improved BSF protein and lipid profiles; results directly supported the planning of a major corporate acquisition.
  • Genomics & Bioinformatics: Spearheaded 16S Nanopore NGS workflows (MinKNOW/EPI2ME) and authored internal SOPs for FASTQ/FASTA data processing.
  • R&D & Patents: Validated bacteria-based Ganoderma inhibitors (PIGR >50%), contributing data to successful agricultural fertilizer patent applications.
  • Advanced Analysis: Conducted qPCR gene expression analysis and antagonistic assays in BSL-3 environments under GLP/ISO standards.
  • Operations & Training: Managed health for a 120,000+ larvae colony and trained staff in molecular techniques (qPCR, NGS, Glycerol stocking).

At the Center for Molecular Sciences & Technology, I:

  • Was in the team isolating antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) from BSF larvae, demonstrating their potential against drug-resistant bacteria
  • Developed enzyme-treated growth substrates that convert food waste into high-value protein 30% faster
  • Presented these findings at events around Malaysia, bridging academic research and farm-level applications

How I Help Farmers & Innovators

I specialize in turning BSF research into practical solutions by:
🔬 Translating Data: From PCR results to scalable growth protocols
🌍 Field-Testing Systems: Optimizing yield across climates and waste streams
📢 Clear Communication: Workshops and consultations free of jargon