Kansas State University’s Department of Grain and Food Science has completed a nationwide search, hiring five new faculty members to enhance research and student training under the Next-Gen PROMISE initiative. These appointments support the department’s goal to become a top-tier research program within the next decade and strengthen K-State’s leadership in food for health and well-being.
The new faculty will lead interdisciplinary projects in gut microbiome function, smart nutrient delivery, novel ingredient technologies from byproducts, and AI-assisted bioactive compound discovery. This investment highlights the critical role of food in human and animal health and its economic impact locally and nationally.
“We are thrilled to welcome this world-class group of scholars to K-State,” said Dr. Joseph Awika, department head. “Their expertise will help us develop innovative, affordable, and sustainable food technologies.”
The new hires include Dr. Yanhong He, Dr. Diego Lopez, Dr. Han Peng, Dr. Guojun Wu, and Dr. Xin Yang. More information about their backgrounds is available on the department’s website.
