As someone passionate about food chemistry and deeply rooted in academia for several years, I have always been intrigued by the industrial applications of food science. Bridging the gap between academic research and practical industry solutions has been a personal goal. When I saw that Prof. Charles Brennan had posted an opening for a Scientific Assistant Intern at the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST), I was immediately interested. This opportunity perfectly aligned with my aspirations.
At the time, I was in the last month of my Australia-visit phase of my PhD program in Food Science, which is a joint effort between the University of Queensland in Australia and the University of Exeter in the UK. The internship offered me a chance to gain industry-focused experience while complementing my academic journey.
During my eight months at IFST, I was fortunate to collaborate with food scientists from various backgrounds, including those working within the UK food industry and international partners collaborating with IFST. Engaging with these professionals provided me with valuable insights into the practical applications of food science and technology. These interactions also served as excellent networking opportunities, enriching my perspective as a researcher.
Throughout my internship, I had the privilege of contributing to several exciting projects. Notable among these were the Acrylamide Technical Brief and the Food Fraud Fact Sheet. In addition, I enjoyed working with the Food Science and Nutrition SIG to develop their toolkit which consolidated trusted resources to support those entering the food sector, through to seasoned professionals, as well as those working in small and medium enterprises. These projects were particularly rewarding because they allowed me to create scientific resources for a broader and more diverse audience. Unlike my usual academic writing for research purposes, these materials were tailored to technical experts in the food industry as well as consumers—a new and invaluable experience for me.
Another highlight was assisting with re-initiating the Student Poster Presentation at IFST, particularly during the IFST AC 24 event. I was involved in organising and managing the process from start to finish. As a researcher, I had often participated in events but rarely had insight into the extensive planning and behind-the-scenes efforts required to make them successful. This experience gave me a newfound appreciation for event coordination and teamwork.
I am incredibly grateful to Natasha (Senior Scientific Affairs Manager) for her unwavering support and for offering me this opportunity to learn and grow. Working with the wonderful IFST team was a true pleasure—they were cheerful, welcoming, and fostered a collaborative, family-like environment.
This internship has not only expanded my understanding of the industry but also strengthened my ability to communicate science effectively to diverse audiences. It was an experience I will cherish as I continue my journey in food science and technology.
Ali Ali Redha - IFST Scientific Intern (May - Dec 24)