Hunt for the best young food scientist

Teesside University is hosting the final of a prestigious competition to find the region’s top young food scientist.

The North of England final of the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST) Young Scientist (North) competition takes place in The Curve at Teesside University on the evening of Wednesday 13 April.

Undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as recent graduates working in the food industry, will present their work to an expert panel of judges.

Among the finalists in the undergraduate category is Teesside University student Zhen Chen, who is in the final year studying BSc (Hons) Food Science and Engineering.

The University is the North Eastern Hub of the IFST and uses its expertise in food science, technology and nutrition to foster networking among professionals and engage and support local schools and colleges.

IFST is the independent qualifying body for food professionals in Europe. Its membership is drawn from all over the world from backgrounds including industry, universities, government, research and development and food law enforcement.

Nigel Atkinson, course leader for BSc (Hons) Food and Nutrition at Teesside, said: 'This is the first time we have hosted the regional final of this competition and it is a very prestigious event. It will provide a great opportunity for students to showcase their work and connect with professionals within the food industry.

'The food industry is the UK’s largest industry, and one of the biggest recruiters of science graduates. Graduates from the food courses at Teesside University have very high employability, and many are now in leading roles both locally and nationally in the food industry. We are very proud to support this exciting event.'

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