Researcher Highlights
International experience in a resilient industry
Dr Taiwo Akanbi
Currently working at the University of Newcastle as a Lecturer and Researcher, Dr Taiwo Akanbi chose to work and research in food science because “food is one thing that humans can’t do without”.
Prior to working at the University, Taiwo studied across the world, completing a Bachelor of Science (Food Science and Technology) in Nigeria, a Master of Science (Food Biotechnology) in Malaysia and a PhD (Food Chemistry: Lipid/Enzyme Technology) in Australia.
Taiwo appreciates such an international experience.
“Studying in different countries on three continents (Africa, Asia and Oceania) is something I cherish so much.
“Meeting and working with people with different languages and cultures made me realise that there is strength in diversity.
“I also learned that regardless of where we come from, there is greatness in everyone,” he said.
Specialising in food waste and valorisation, Taiwo chose this field because food waste is a global problem.
“Regardless of where you live in the world, the problem of food waste is the same. When we waste food, we waste the resources to grow/make them and we damage the environment,” Taiwo said.
The knowledge acquired by Taiwo over his 14 years of research can be used to help solve these food waste problems.
To Taiwo, the Bachelor of Food Science and Human Nutrition at the University of Newcastle is an extremely useful program for students.
“There are state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, and the teaching staff have a broad range of food industry experience that benefits student learning significantly.
“The program also has a very strong industry collaboration which makes it easy for students to secure industry experience during placement.
“Because of the great reputation of this program, the majority of our students secure jobs almost immediately after graduation,” Taiwo said.
Having studied at many universities around the world, Taiwo believes that the University of Newcastle stands out in terms of the quality of education, resources and staff.
“The cultural diversity of staff members and students at the University of Newcastle is also very impressive – there will always be people around that students can easily relate to,” he said.
Taiwo believes that the food industry is so important as it is one of the most resilient sectors.
“Many industries disappeared or folded during the dark days of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the food industry expanded and grew.
“Food keeps evolving and we are one of the most innovative industries in the world,” Taiwo concluded.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.