GOTHENBURG, Sweden — CapillaryFlow, a global leader in sub-surface irrigation and hydroponic turf technology, has announced the appointment of Ryan Bearss as its new Director of Research & Development, effective September 1, 2026.

Bearss joins the Swedish innovator at a pivotal moment as the company formalizes an expanded research strategy to advance precision moisture control and climate-resilient turf systems.

Bridging Academic Excellence and Field Innovation

Bearss is currently finalizing his PhD in Crop and Soil Sciences at Michigan State University (MSU), where he has been a key figure in the university’s world-renowned turfgrass program. His work under the guidance of Dr. Trey Rogers has focused on:

• Sand-based rootzone performance and hybrid turf stabilization.
• The MSU arm of the 2026 FIFA World Cup pitch research project.
• Developing temporary, high-durability natural grass systems for high-intensity use.

His credentials include multiple James and Harriet Beard Outstanding Turfgrass Graduate Student Fellowships and extensive international research presentations, positioning him as a leading voice in sustainable turfgrass solutions.

Scientific Validation: The 83% Water Savings

The appointment follows three years of rigorous scientific trials at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Centre at MSU. Research into the company’s patented Capillary Hydroponics system—an AI-controlled sub-surface oxygen and moisture exchange technology—has demonstrated a remarkable 83% reduction in water usage compared to traditional methods.

Martin Sternberg, Founder and CEO of CapillaryFlow, emphasized the strategic importance of the hire:

"We are thrilled to welcome Ryan... His deep knowledge in hybrid turf systems and profound interest in sub-surface irrigation will accelerate our efforts to deliver water-efficient solutions that can reduce irrigation inputs by up to 85% while enhancing surface stability and playability worldwide."

A Vision for Sustainable Surfaces

In his new role, Bearss will oversee a R&D roadmap focused on precision rootzone moisture control and AI data-driven evaluation of surface resilience. This work aims to benefit a wide array of sectors, including golf courses, sports fields, and equestrian arenas.

"I’m both grateful and excited to join CapillaryFlow," said Bearss. "This opportunity allows me to bridge academic research with practical applications, helping clients achieve superior playing conditions with minimal environmental impact."