Future Scientist Competition 2026 – North of England

Date: 
Thursday, 2 July, 2026 - 17:00 to 19:30
Location: 
Helix, University of Leeds, EC Stoner Building, Woodhouse, Leeds LS2 3AR

Join us as an audience member for the North of England Final of IFST Future Scientist to hear about active research in food science and technology at universities. We will also have a keynote speech from industry at the event.

Students will have 5 minutes to present their research followed by 5 minutes of questions from our panel. Refreshments will be provided and time for networking. The event is sponsored by pladis UK and PepsiCo.

This event is free to attend however places are limited, you will need to register to attend.

Programme:

17:00 - 17:30 Arrival and refreshments
17:30 - 17:35

Introduction and welcome

Robin Leaper - Education and Careers Manager, Institute of Food Science and Technology

17:35 - 17:50

Keynote talk -  Jawad Haidery, Regulatory & Technical Compliance Director, The Compleat Food Group 

Student Presentations

17:50 - 18:00

Adela Ivana Kasim, University of Leeds

Impact of Milk Fat on the Molecular Structure of Molten Cocoa Butter and Cocoa Butter Equivalents

18:00 - 18:10

Balavaseekaran Tamilvanan Maheshwari , Teesside University

Development and Quality Evaluation of Sugar-Reduced Agar Jelly Using Natural Sweeteners and Fibre

18:10 - 18:20

Harini Pandourangam, University of Leeds

Rethinking Protein through Circular Food Systems

18:20 - 18:30

Hannah Plush, Harper Adams University

Rye on the Rise? Consumer Acceptance of Rye Sourdough in the UK

18:30 - 18:40

Ellora Harrrison, Newcastle University

Comparative Effects of Nitrate Rich Beetroot Juice and Crystals on Salivary pH, and Consumer Acceptability in Adults

18:40 - 18:50

Elisha Sinyinza, University of Leeds

Mycotoxin Management in Aquafeed: From Outbreak to Control

18:50 - 19:10 Break and networking
19:10 - 19:30 Results and prize presentation

Judges: 

Jawad Haidery - Regulatory & Technical Compliance Director, The Compleat Food Group

Dr Mariam Aigbe - Research and Development Specialist, A Food Research Ltd

 Molly Charles - Technical Controller, Greencore

Please note that photography will be taking place throughout the event.

Kindly sponsored by: