Awarded to a young microbiologist (under 30 years) working within the food and beverage industry, the first prize went to Jessica Roberts, laboratory manager for Tegel Foods, Christchurch, New Zealand
Oxoid announces the winners of its 2006/2007 Young Food Microbiologist of the Year award.
Jessica Roberts wins a trip to the 2008 International Association of Food Protection Meeting in Columbus, Ohio, USA, plus £1000.
She impressed the judges with her proactive approach to establishing new methodologies that would allow Tegel Foods, the largest processor of chicken in New Zealand, to reduce levels of Campylobacter both on-farm and in processing.
The judges applauded her initiative, working with her procurement colleagues to achieve savings in laboratory spend to compensate for the required increased spend on Campylobacter testing.
"Jessica's work had a considerable impact on food safety and, ultimately, human health," said Cheryl Mooney, applications manager, food and industrial markets for Oxoid and chairman of the judging panel.
"Her entry demonstrated team leadership and a determination to operate at the highest level.
"We are delighted to award her first prize".
Second prize was awarded to Saadia Maqsood, microbiologist at Qarshi Research International, Hattar, Pakistan.
The judges cited Saadia's self motivation and attention to detail as strengths that contributed significantly to improvements undertaken by the lab, including implementation of a laboratory information management system (Lims) and introduction of five new tests to the laboratory's scope.
She also took on additional honorary responsibilities as the laboratory's internal auditor for ISO 17025 and plant hygienist.
The third prize was awarded to Stacey Ryder, microbiologist at Long Clawson Diary, Melton Mowbray, UK.
Her contribution to improvements in environmental monitoring led to improved hygiene standards in production areas and, with product testing efficiency in mind, She also advised on the design of a new facility.
The winners will receive their awards later in the year at a ceremony to be held in the UK.
