Key Takeaways
- The Institute of Food Technologists has named Brendan Niemira as its new Chief Science and Technology Officer.
- Niemira previously served more than 25 years at USDA-ARS, leading research on non-thermal food safety technologies.
- He has authored over 200 peer-reviewed publications and received multiple federal recognitions.
- His appointment follows decades of service to the Institute of Food Technologists as a member, volunteer, and former board director.
- Leadership emphasized the importance of strengthening the scientific voice within food systems and policy.
Institute of Food Technologists Announces Leadership Transition
The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) has appointed Brendan Niemira as its new Chief Science and Technology Officer (CSTO). Niemira joins the role after more than 25 years at the USDA Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS), where he served as lead scientist and research microbiologist.
“For nearly three decades, I have been proud to serve as a steward for science across my roles with the USDA and as an IFT member, and I am thrilled to now do that as Chief Science and Technology Officer for IFT,” said Niemira.
At USDA-ARS, Niemira led a team of more than 30 scientists, engineers, technicians, and students developing technologies to reduce pathogens on produce, meats, poultry, shellfish, and other foods.
Institute of Food Technologists Highlights Niemira’s Scientific Contributions
Niemira’s work has focused on non-thermal food safety treatments, including cold plasma, high-intensity monochromatic light, and irradiation. Over his career, he has published more than 200 peer-reviewed papers, book chapters, and reviews. He received the 2016 Department of Defense Award for Excellence for his leadership of USDA’s Food Safety and Intervention Technologies Research Unit.
Discussing current challenges, Niemira said: “We are facing unprecedented challenges today across the food system as decreased investment in critical areas like research funding and staffing put our food supply at greater risk… the world needs organizations like IFT to help lead the way.”
A member of the Institute of Food Technologists since 2003, Niemira was named an IFT Fellow in 2023 and has served in various volunteer leadership roles, including Biotechnology Division chair and member of the Annual Meeting Scientific Program Advisory Panel.
Institute of Food Technologists Leadership Welcomes New CSTO
IFT CEO Christie Tarantino-Dean stated, “Brendan brings a unique perspective to this role, shaped by his decades of scientific leadership and his deep connection to IFT… His understanding of our community, paired with his experience at the forefront of food safety research, will add tremendous value to IFT.”
