What do you do in your current role with the University of Missouri?
As an assistant professor and state extension specialist, I lead research and extension programs in food processing and food safety. My work focuses on microbial risk mitigation, process validation and food safety training. I collaborate with food businesses, entrepreneurs and stakeholders to ensure good agricultural practices, implement HACCP-based food safety systems, FDA-FSMA regulatory compliance and translate scientific findings into practical, real-world applications that improve food safety and public health. Additionally, as a Process Authority, I review food product formulations and issue process authority letters, supporting small- and medium-scale food processors in launching compliant, safe and successful food enterprises.
How long have you worked in this position?
I joined the University of Missouri in July 2021 as an assistant professor and state extension specialist in food processing. Since then, I have been actively engaged in building impactful research programs, developing comprehensive Extension trainings and supporting Missouri’s diverse food industry. My role integrates applied research with stakeholder outreach to address real-world challenges. Prior to this position, I gained extensive experience in both academia and industry, which continues to inform and strengthen my food safety research, teaching and extension activities.
What is your favorite part about the work you do?
My favorite part of my work is bridging the gap between science and industry. I enjoy collaborating directly with small- and medium-scale farmers and food entrepreneurs to address real-world challenges, enhance food safety and support regulatory compliance. It is especially rewarding to see research translate into safer products, improved processes and new economic opportunities for Missouri’s rural communities. Extension allows me to make a tangible impact by sharing knowledge that supports both public health and the growth of food businesses.
How are you helping MU A&E Extension advance its reach and impact?
I contribute by delivering statewide food safety training programs, including Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), Preventive Control Qualified Individual (PCQI-Human Food), Better Process Control School training, applied food safety microbiology workshop and canning workshops. These efforts help food processors and businesses comply with regulations, validate processes and improve product safety. By engaging with diverse stakeholders, I help expand extension’s reach and ensure research-driven solutions benefit Missouri’s food industry and communities.
What is something your CAFNR and MU Extension teammates may not know about you?
Many may not realize that my career integrates both global food industry leadership and academic research. Prior to joining the University of Missouri, I served as a global director of microbiology, where I led comprehensive microbiology programs, while also contributing as adjunct faculty at multiple state universities.
Since 2013, I have been involved in developing food process lethality models that have supported more than 10,000 food businesses worldwide, saving millions of dollars and significantly reducing the risk of foodborne illness outbreaks. This unique combination of industry leadership, applied research and academic engagement shapes my practical, solutions-oriented approach to extension and research, enabling me to effectively understand, anticipate and address real-world food safety challenges across diverse settings and stakeholders.
What is your hometown, place of high school graduation, and degrees/universities?
I am originally from Bangalore, India, where I completed my early education, including high school. I earned my bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Agricultural Sciences in India. I later pursued a Ph.D. in with a specialization in food microbiology from Kansas State University, which laid the foundation for my career in food safety research and extension. During my free time, I enjoy reading and cooking.