IFT appoints Brendan Niemira as new chief science & technology officer

The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) has named Brendan Niemira as its new chief science and technology officer, effective immediately.

Niemira joins IFT with more than 25 years of experience at the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS), where he served as a lead scientist and research microbiologist. At USDA-ARS, he headed a team developing innovative food safety treatments for products ranging from fresh produce to meats.

His research has focused on non-thermal food safety technologies such as cold plasma and high-intensity monochromatic light to eliminate pathogens. Over his career, he has authored 200+ peer-reviewed publications and received the Department of Defense Award for Excellence in 2016 for his contributions to food safety.

In his new role, Niemira aims to apply his deep expertise to help IFT address the growing challenges in the global food supply chain.

“We are facing unprecedented challenges across the food system,” he said. “Decreased investment in critical areas like research funding puts our food supply at greater risk, and organisations like IFT are essential in leading the way.”

A long-time IFT member since 2003, Niemira has held several leadership roles, including serving on the board of directors and chairing the biotechnology division.

His appointment underscores IFT’s mission to elevate the role of science in policy-making, ensuring that food safety and innovation remain grounded in rigorous scientific insight.

Christie Tarantino-Dean, CEO of IFT, said Niemira brings a “unique perspective shaped by decades of scientific leadership and a deep connection to IFT.”

Founded in 1939, IFT represents more than 200,000 food science professionals worldwide and advocates for science and technology to tackle the world’s most complex food challenges.