Competition to find UK’s top young food scientists

The Institute of Food Science & Technology (IFST) is urging UK food science and technology students to take part in its Young Scientist Competition. The competition aims to showcase students with a future career in the food sector.

The Young Scientist Competition is open to all undergraduate and postgraduate students as well as ‘early-career’ graduates who are within three years of graduating from their first degree.

Shortlisted students will be invited to present on their current or recently completed food-related project from areas such as food science, food technology, human nutrition, sensory science, food safety management and consumer behaviour to a distinguished panel of top food industry specialists which includes representatives from Dawn Meats, Marks and Spencer, Sainsbury’s, as well as a number of independent consultants to be in with a chance of winning £250.

Winners will be announced on the evening of the competition.

Julia Hewerdine, group food safety and quality projects manager, Dawn Meats, who joined the judging panel last year, says, “I was thoroughly impressed with the knowledge and understanding demonstrated by the students on their chosen subject areas during the IFST Young Food Scientist Competition.

“The presentation techniques employed were also excellent. As a judge I found the topics covered fascinating and added to my own knowledge base too!

“To any student thinking of entering this year’s IFST Young Food Scientist, go for it! Thoroughly understand and be passionate about the project you are presenting and this will shine through.”

The closing date for entries is 28 March 2018 (21 March 2018 for Scotland).