Colin Dennis is the 76th president of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), Chicago, the society announced Sept. 1. Dr. Dennis succeeds Dr. Mary Ellen Camire, IFT’s 2014-2015 president and food science professor at the University of Maine’s School of Food & Agriculture.
In his position as president, Dr. Dennis will work with food scientists, technologists and professionals from related disciplines in academia, industry, and government to support IFT's new strategic priorities which include focusing on advancing and promoting careers in the science of food; establishing productive and interactive global networks; promoting science, technology and their application; and advocacy efforts contributing to evidence-based science to the public dialogue on food issues.
“It is a great honor to serve as the next president of the Institute of Food Technologists, especially given the important public dialogue involving how we will feed billions of people in the decades ahead,” says Dennis. “As we address this challenge, it will be imperative that we continue to emphasize the importance of science and innovation so they are universally accepted as essential to a safe, nutritious, and sustainable food supply worldwide.”
Dr. Dennis began his career in food science and technology as the first mycologist in the U.K. Government’s Institute of Food Research. He later was named the first director of food technology at Campden Food & Drink Research Association. During his seven years in that role, he initiated research in chilled foods, aseptic packaging and hygienic design. He subsequently served as director-general of the organization, now Campden BRI, for 21 years.
Dennis has also served on government and industry advisory committees in the U.K., Australia, the U.S., Canada, Belgium, India and Abu Dhabi. He has served on the selection panel for the World Food Prize and has volunteered in numerous capacities in the food science and technology community. As a visiting professor at Queen’s University, Belfast, and Royal Agricultural University, Dr. Dennis taught undergrad modules, provided strategic guidance and hosted students for industrial training.
John Coupland, PhD, CFS will serve IFT president elect and will follow Dennis as the 2016-2017 president.
