Dr. Byron Chaves, associate professor and food safety extension specialist at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, has been named the 2025 recipient of the Emerging Leader Award in Food Safety by the Institute for the Advancement of Food and Nutrition Sciences (IAFNS).
The national award recognizes early-career researchers who are making significant contributions in food safety and nutrition through research, leadership, collaboration, and communication. Chaves will be honored at the IAFNS Annual Summer Science Symposium in Washington, D.C., June 10–11, where he will also present his research.
Chaves leads outreach and applied research efforts focused on improving food safety practices in meat processing environments. His work emphasizes practical, science-based solutions for reducing microbial risks and ensuring food safety across the supply chain. His extension programming supports Nebraska’s food industry—especially small and medium-sized processors—and connects academic research with real-world application.
The IAFNS Emerging Leader Awards are competitive honors selected by a national committee. In addition to Chaves, Dr. Laura Chiavaroli of the University of Toronto was recognized for her work in nutrition science.
