Published: 14 Aug 2022
During National Science Week 2022, we are catching-up with some of TIA’s researchers, who work across a wide variety of areas to help transform the knowledge of agriculture, food production and post farmgate practices of Tasmania’s farmers, to create sustainable economic benefit for Tasmania and the world.
National Science Week is Australia’s annual celebration of science and technology.
National Science Week 2022 (August 13-21) officially starts this weekend and features exhibitions, festivals, workshops, and performances displaying the wonders of science.
This year is also a celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the formation of Young Tassie Scientists, a program that involves PhD candidates and early career researchers who present science talks and activities to schools around Tasmania.
During National Science Week 2022, we are catching-up with some of TIA’s researchers, who work across a wide variety of areas to help transform the knowledge of agriculture, food production and post farmgate practices of Tasmania’s farmers, to create sustainable economic benefit for Tasmania and the world.
Dr Matthew Wilson is a Lecturer in Food Science and Technology, teaching in processing, safety, nutrition, and innovation in the food industry. His research interests specialise in the field of food packaging, quality, and shelf-life. Matthew’s research interests include novel food preservation techniques, the relationship between food spoilage and taste, and the effects of fermentation processes on the taste of foods and beverages.
What is the coolest thing about being a scientist?
Doing new things all the time! No year of my career so far has ever been the same as the last.
Why did you choose to follow this study/career path?
The opportunity to do new things, and to adapt my research to meet real world needs.
What are you working on right now that is especially exciting?
Much of my research looks at the taste of foods, including using new technology where machines can taste food for us. We definitely can’t ask people to taste test potentially bad food, but what about machines? What does E. coli taste like?
Do you have any advice for students considering studying science?
Find out about as many fields of science as you can and find the field that interests you the most.
