Food Microbiology and Safety
Food microbiology and safety research explores strategies to control foodborne pathogens and improve food safety throughout the food production continuum. In the Department of Animal Science, this work connects microbiology, food science, and public health with real-world applications in food production and processing systems, while providing students with hands-on opportunities to gain experience and prepare for future careers.
Research and Opportunities
What We Study
Research in food microbiology and safety includes topics such as foodborne pathogens, antimicrobial alternatives, probiotics, pathogen virulence, microbiomes, antibiotic resistance, food processing environments, and intervention strategies to improve food safety and public health. Faculty study how pathogens survive, spread, and interact with hosts and production systems, while developing science-based approaches to reduce contamination and improve food safety across farm-to-fork systems. Research also explores natural and novel methods of pathogen control, including plant-based compounds, beneficial bacteria, bacteriophages, and probiotic applications.
Hands-On Opportunities
Students interested in food microbiology and safety can explore research through coursework, faculty-led projects, laboratory experiences, microbial and molecular biology techniques, food safety analysis, and collaborative research opportunities. Undergraduate and graduate students are encouraged to connect with faculty members whose research aligns with their interests to learn more about available opportunities.
Career Connections
Research experience in food microbiology and safety can prepare students for careers in food safety and quality assurance, public health, food and dairy industries, microbiology, biotechnology, regulatory agencies, research and development, and graduate or professional study.
Faculty Researchers
Interested in research opportunities? Contact faculty directly to learn more about getting involved in their lab.
Explore Animal Science Research
The Department of Animal Science conducts research across a wide range of areas that support animal agriculture, food systems, and animal care. Explore additional research areas to learn more about the work our faculty and students are doing.
