Food for thought: Masters student sets eyes on improving global food system
Masters student Liz Ninu has always loved science. But it was COVID-19 that prompted her to pursue a Master of Food Science at the University of Melbourne.
“The pandemic highlighted the need to improve food management and food supply processes globally. It inspired me to study food science and try to make a difference in the world,” said Ms Ninu, who is now in her second year of postgraduate studies.
After completing a Bachelor of Science at Christ University in Bengaluru, India, Ms Ninu started looking at overseas study options to expand her knowledge and tap into a global university network.
Masters student Liz Ninu
“The University of Melbourne offered the most comprehensive program, covering all the major food science fields, with a wide range of resources,” said Ms Ninu.
“What I love about food science is that it’s highly interdisciplinary. I finished my bachelor’s degree with a triple major in chemistry, biotechnology, and zoology, and I wanted to continue studying at an institution that supported interdisciplinary learning.”
To kickstart her Masters, Ms Ninu attended Graduate Agriculture and Food Industry Discovery Week at the University’s Dookie campus – a program designed to help food and agriculture students build skills and confidence, create industry and peer networks, and explore food and agriculture production in the local region.
“Discovery Week was a fantastic opportunity to connect with other students and industry. The sessions were well organised, and it was a great overall experience. I highly recommend the program to others,” said Ms Ninu.
Ms Ninu says the Master of Food Science has an excellent dual focus on both academic and industry-applied food science.
“The curriculum is preparing us for the job market, which is fantastic. I’m learning the different approaches to education and how to tackle real-world problems with a scientific mindset,” she said.
“I would like to study the gaps in global food systems that need to be bridged to improve food management and supply. Access to healthy food and nutrition is so important – hopefully I can use the knowledge from my Masters to benefit people and processes around the world.”