Food scientists make Science Council’s top 100 list
To compile the list, the Science Council gathered nominations from its member organisations, including the Institute of Food Science & Technology, for scientists that fell into ten ‘types’ of scientist roles.
The Food & Drink Federation’s director, regulatory, science and health Barbara Gallani and the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute’s principal scientific officer – and IFST president – Margaret Patterson were honoured under the monitor/ regulator scientist category.
Professor Colin Dennis CBE, chairman of the English Food and Drink Alliance and Dr Cecil McMurray CBE, an independent science consultant, were recognised under the business/marketing scientist category.
The chief inspector for the Drinking Water Inspectorate, Jeni Colbourne and Lord David Sainsbury also made the list.
‘Break down the stereotype’
A ‘10 types of scientist’ article was originally created to show young people the number of ways that an individual can work in science and break down the stereotype of a scientist as someone in a white coat working in a research lab.
The other eight types of scientist are explorer, investigator, developer / translational, service provider/ operational, entrepreneur, communicator, teacher and policy maker.
Sir Tom Blundell, chairman of the judging panel, said: “Most emphatically the list shows that not all scientists wear white coats and that scientists are not only found in universities and research labs: they are literally everywhere in a wide variety of careers and occupations.”
The IFST said: “Though food science plays an incalculable role in the UK, IFST recognises that it doesn’t receive the attention it deserves. With a looming skills gap on the horizon, now, more than ever, it is important to bring attention to the exciting and varied careers within food and drink.”
