The University of Queensland’s Professor Mark Turner has been awarded the 2023 Australian Institute of Food Science and Technology (AIFST) President’s Award for his outstanding contributions to the institute.
The School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability researcher has also been recognised for advancing AIFST's work in uniting food industry professionals in feeding future generations.
“It’s been a privilege to collaborate with AIFST in our shared mission for over a decade, with a focus on developing the next generation of food scientists who will drive the future of Australia’s food industry,” Professor Turner said.
“It’s really wonderful to be able to shine a light on the importance of educating our food system professionals, vital for Australia’s future.
“They work in all facets of the food industry: food science, food technology, engineering, sensory, new product development, innovation, regulatory, QA, nutrition, microbiology and food safety, as well as those in leadership positions within the academic, industry and private sectors.
“And here at UQ we’re leading the charge, in both research and teaching in food science and tech.”
Professor Turner is currently working as Deputy Director for the Innovative Ingredients Program for in UQ’s Food and Beverage Accelerator (FaBA), a $160 million initiative to boost growth and innovation in the food and beverage manufacturing sector.
His research covers a wide range of food science projects, including using good bacteria to kill bad bacteria that cause food poisoning.
“We want to harness the power of microbes to help tackle some of the challenges we face with food security and sustainability,” Professor Turner said.
“I thoroughly enjoy leading research projects that aim to provide new knowledge on food bacteria and develop ways to make foods safer.
“But I also love teaching and training students, sparking their interest in the many challenges and opportunities in food science and technology.”
UQ offers food science and technology programs of study at both the undergraduate and postgraduate level, taught by staff that lead internationally recognised research programs.
The university is ranked ninth in the world in the US News rankings for Food Science & Technology.
Programs contain options for students to take research projects and industry placements.
UQ is proud to cover a broad range of subject areas, essential for our graduates for future success in the myriad of roles that food scientists enter.
Media: Faculty of Science Media; +61 438 162 687, science.media@uq.edu.au.
