A prize to encourage students into food microbiology or food safety research has been established in honour of the late Professor Tom McMeekin AO who passed away in 2021.
The prize was established by a generous donation made by Professor John Bowman, current Centre Leader for Food Safety and Innovation at the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture. The prize will encourage students into food microbiology or food safety research at the University of Tasmania, and to honour Tom’s memory and lasting legacy. The first prize will be awarded in 2024.
Acknowledged as one of the world’s leading food microbiologists, Professor McMeekin’s expertise established new systems of improving food safety around the world.
Tom pioneered the development of predictive microbiology and established the University of Tasmania as the world leader in predictive modelling of microbial behaviour in foods.
The founding father of the world-renowned Food Safety Centre at the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture in Hobart, Tom was also involved in the development of the Refrigeration Index for the meat industry which is now mandated by the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service.
Tom contributed to more than 200 publications and was the author of the influential monograph Predictive Microbiology: Theory and Application.
After coming to Australia from Northern Ireland in 1974, the McMeekins intended to stay for only three years. Their decision to make Australia their home has enriched our reputation as a global leader, not only in the field of food microbiology, but also in science innovation, research and education.
Professor McMeekin was honoured as an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2013 for his distinguished service to science, particularly in the discipline of agricultural microbiology, as an academic and author, and to the development of food safety standards and education.
Find out how you can contribute to this prize fund.
For any other queries about supporting scholarships or prizes at the Tasmanian Institute for Agriculture, please contact University.Giving@utas.edu.au