Gothenburg, Sweden: CapillaryFlow, a global innovator in sub-surface irrigation and hydroponic turf systems, has announced the appointment of Ryan Bearss as Director of Research & Development, effective from September 1, 2026. 

Capillary Hydroponics is a patented new way to grow large outdoor areas of grass/crops with advanced AI-controlled oxygen exchange, having proven water savings of up to 83% during scientific research over three years at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Centre at Michigan State University (MSU).

Currently completing his PhD in Crop and Soil Sciences at MSU, Bearss has built a research portfolio focused on sand-based rootzone performance, hybrid turf stabilisation, sod production systems, and climate-resilient turf management. Working under Dr Trey Rogers, his research has contributed to field-scale and controlled-environment trials addressing durability, drainage, nutrient efficiency, and surface performance under high-intensity use.

His work includes collaboration on hybrid-stabilised cool-season turf systems and participation in World Cup-related pitch research initiatives in partnership with the University of Tennessee. Bearss has presented research internationally and received multiple James and Harriet Beard Outstanding Turfgrass Graduate Student Fellowships, underscoring his standing within the turfgrass research community.

With this appointment, CapillaryFlow formalizes an expanded research and validation strategy aimed at advancing:

• Integrated sub-surface irrigation science.
• Precision rootzone moisture control.
• Reduced-input turf systems.
• Performance optimisation in hybrid and sand-based constructions.
• AI data-driven evaluation of surface stability and resilience.

With a robust background that includes leading research co-ordination for the MSU arm of the 2026 FIFA World Cup project and authoring numerous peer-reviewed publications, Bearss is poised to drive innovation in sustainable turf solutions.

Martin Sternberg, Founder and CEO of CapillaryFlow, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Ryan to CapillaryFlow as our Director of Research and Development, beginning September 1. His deep knowledge in hybrid turf systems, turfgrass culture, and profound interest in sub-surface irrigation technologies will accelerate our efforts to deliver water-efficient solutions that can reduce irrigation inputs by up to 85% while enhancing surface stability and playability for golf courses, sports fields, and equestrian arenas worldwide.”

Bearss said: “I’m both grateful and excited to join CapillaryFlow and contribute to the company’s vision of pioneering hydroponic systems and revolutionising sport surfaces through the development of sustainable, cutting-edge turfgrass solutions for resilient, healthier turfgrass systems. This opportunity allows me to bridge academic research with practical applications, helping clients achieve superior playing conditions with minimal environmental impact.”

CapillaryFlow’s proprietary Capillary Hydroponics and Capillary Geothermal technologies provide below-surface control of moisture, aeration, and nutrient delivery, enabling extended field usability, reduced irrigation demand, and improved long-term surface stability across golf courses, sports fields, equestrian arenas, and urban green infrastructure.

By integrating scientific validation with applied engineering, CapillaryFlow continues to bridge research and real-world implementation – delivering sustainable performance solutions for the next generation of managed landscapes.

*CapillaryFlow is a member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.