AFBI scientist recognised by Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences

Dr Linda Farmer, of Food Research Branch in the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI), was recently appointed as a Distinguished Professor and Distinguished International Supervisor at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS).

This is in recognition of Dr Farmer’s international research profile in food research and her personal contribution to developing research collaboration between CAAS and AFBI Food Research Branch.

The CAAS Institute of Food Science and Technology, a key research group within CAAS and the Meat Science and Technology team under Professor Dequan Zhang, is widely recognised for its research on meat quality, processing and engineering and the utilisation of meat by-products. A Memorandum of Understanding is in place between CAAS and AFBI, with the implementation of a ‘Joint Research Centre on Meat Science’.

CAAS is encouraging collaboration with selected scientists across the world, through the appointment of international professors and supervisors in research areas regarded as high priority for China. Dr Farmer has just returned from a visit to CAAS where a ceremony was held to award these titles. Similar honours were bestowed upon scientists from Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France and Spain.

As part of an “International Workshop of Meat Quality and Processing Technology”, Dr Farmer gave a presentation on “The science of beef and lamb eating quality” and was also asked to contribute to the Opening Ceremony.

During her visit, extensive discussions were held to identify areas of mutual research interest, where a joint approach could add value for both organisations and regions. Several new meat research projects have been identified which will enhance the research from CAAS and AFBI and work is in hand to identify how to take these forward. The link with China has the support of DAERA, as part of its international programme.

Notes to editors: 

AFBI carries out high quality technology research and development, statutory, analytical, and diagnostic testing functions for DAERA and other Government departments, public bodies and commercial companies.

AFBI's Vision is “Scientific excellence in Northern Ireland … serving the world”.

All media enquiries to AFBI Press Office

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