The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), a nonprofit scientific association committed to advancing the science of food and its application across the global food system, has announced that Brendan Niemira has taken over as its new chief science and technology officer (CSTO). Niemira previously served as lead scientist and research microbiologist at the Agricultural Research Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA-ARS). He spent more than 25 years at USDA-ARS, which serves as the USDA’s chief scientific in-house research agency.

At the USDA-ARS, Niemira led a team of more than 30 scientists, engineers, technicians, postdocs, and students in developing tools to kill human pathogens on produce, meats, poultry, shellfish, and other foods. His research focused on the development and validation of cold plasma, high-intensity monochromatic light, irradiation, and other non-thermal food safety treatments for fresh and fresh-cut fruits and vegetables.

Niemira has published more than 200 peer-reviewed research articles, book chapters, and critical reviews. He was also the 2016 recipient of the Department of Defense Award for Excellence in recognition for this work leading the USDA’s Food Safety and Intervention Technologies Research Unit. Niemira earned his bachelor’s degree in biological sciences from the University of Chicago and his PhD in botany and plant pathology from Michigan State University.

“As guardians of public health and catalysts for innovation, food scientists and researchers help ensure science remains the foundation of food safety, security, and resilience. 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 the Institute of Food Technologists,” says Niemira. 

“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, and the world needs organizations like IFT to help lead the way and be that much-needed voice of the food science community,” he continues. “I have served in a variety of volunteer roles with IFT over the years and have seen first-hand how IFT is not only a critical hub for ideation and collaboration but also serves as a convener for the food science community in helping ensure a food system that is accessible and affordable for all.” 

A member of IFT since 2003, Niemira previously served on IFT’s Board of Directors and was selected as an IFT Fellow in 2023—one of the highest honors bestowed upon a member of the food science community—in recognition of his career excellence and significant service, leadership, and contributions to IFT and the profession.

Niemira has presented dozens of research posters and technical presentations at various IFT meetings. He previously served as chair of the Biotechnology Division where he received the Biotech Outstanding Volunteer Award in 2015. He also served on the Annual Meeting Scientific Program Advisory Panel (AMSPAP), which establishes the content direction and programming for IFT FIRST, IFT’s annual event, first as Food Microbiology track lead and then as chair. 

“Brendan brings a unique perspective to this role, shaped by his decades of scientific leadership and his deep connection to IFT as both a longtime member and service on the board,” says IFT CEO Christie Tarantino-Dean. “His understanding of our community, paired with his experience at the forefront of food safety research, will add tremendous value to IFT, the members we serve, and our efforts to elevate the voice of food scientists in policy and legislative decision-making.”

Related: IFT names new board president