Chidimma Ifeh
2024 - 2027 FFAR Fellows
Introduction
The Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) is pleased to announce the seventh cohort of graduate students to be accepted to the FFAR Fellows Program.
Chidimma Ifeh is a doctoral student at Montana State University and was selected as a FFAR Fellow studying Sustainable Food Systems, Statistics, Computer Science, and Nutrition.
Keep reading to learn more about Chidimma's research and why she applied to be a FFAR Fellow.
About Me
Hometown: Ukpor, Anambra, Nigeria
I learned the value of education, discipline, and resilience from my loving and supportive parents, who instilled these principles in me despite not having the opportunity to acquire a college degree. A pivotal moment in my life occurred during a school excursion, where I saw firsthand the struggles farmers face in preserving and processing their harvests. Seeing their hard work and significant postharvest losses due to inadequate knowledge sparked a deep interest in me to explore this field further.
My journey has been a blend of curiosity, passion, and a determination to solve real-world problems. My path has been unconventional yet profoundly fulfilling, from standing under the sun in vast fields and witnessing the farmers' toil to immersing myself in the programming world. The excitement of learning new skills, whether developing techniques to process crops or coding innovative applications, drives me forward. What truly excites me about food and agriculture research is the opportunity to bridge the gap between food science and technology. By doing so, we can create solutions that not only reduce food waste but also empower communities on a global scale. The potential to enhance food security and minimize postharvest losses fuels my passion for this field. Working on projects that transform indigenous crops into shelf-stable products and mitigate food spoilage gives me a profound sense of purpose.
Moreover, the interdisciplinary nature of food science—combining cutting-edge technology with sustainable practices—keeps me engaged and motivated. I am committed to finding innovative solutions to today's global food challenges. I hope to make a meaningful impact through my work, ensuring farmers' hard work leads to prosperous outcomes and a more secure food future for all.
Why the FFAR Fellows Program?
Deciding to apply to the FFAR Fellows program was driven by a deep-seated desire to embark on a transformative journey. Originating from Nigeria and having collaborated extensively with farmers in Senegal and Nigeria, as well as engaging with farmers in Montana, my diverse background fuels my commitment to global impact and innovation. This program presents an invaluable opportunity for me to enhance my capabilities, share acquired knowledge widely, and contribute effectively within academic and professional spheres. I am eagerly anticipating the insights that this program will provide, enabling me to build stronger relationships with my peers in the lab, mentor undergraduate students more effectively, and navigate the complexities of graduate studies with confidence.
My professional goals are driven by a profound commitment to research and innovation in our food systems. As a first-generation and the first African woman to study Sustainable Food Systems at Montana State University, earning a PhD is more than a personal milestone – it is a transformative journey. I aspire to leverage my passion for research to empower farmers and enhance food accessibility. I co-founded a non-profit venture aimed at helping farmers convert crops into value-added products, reducing post-harvest losses. My career goal is to immerse myself in research, serving as an industry-academia researcher and providing underprivileged students a chance to access advanced study. Having seen students' dedication in various food laboratories, especially in developing countries, I am committed to ensuring their innovative ideas extend beyond thesis and dissertation defenses. My vision involves active participation in teaching and mentoring and fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between theory and application. I am passionate about addressing the disconnect between groundbreaking research conducted in academic settings and its translation into tangible industry outcomes.
The FFAR Fellows program presents a crucial opportunity to deepen my expertise, collaborate with leading experts, and gain practical insights that will enhance my ability to translate research findings into impactful solutions.
My Research
The research project focuses on exploring the potential of pulses, which are nutritionally dense and environmentally friendly compared to traditional crops, to enhance food security and sustainability while mitigating climate change. Despite these benefits, pulses are underutilized in the plant-based product industry due to off-flavors and a lack of consumer awareness about their sustainability advantages.
To address this gap, we are developing a machine learning-based model that predicts the nutritional, biofunctional, and sensory qualities of pulse products using processing and physicochemical variables. Machine learning offers a powerful tool to analyze complex relationships within data, enabling precise predictions and improved product development. By optimizing manufacturing processes and identifying critical parameters that influence product quality, our project aims to increase the efficiency and attractiveness of pulse-based products.
This innovative approach not only enhances the utilization of pulse production but also contributes to positive social, environmental, and economic impacts. It supports food security by promoting nutritious alternatives, enhances environmental sustainability through lower carbon and water footprints, and aids in mitigating climate change by reducing reliance on resource-intensive crops. Ultimately, our research will provide valuable insights to manufacturers, helping them produce high-quality pulse products that meet consumer expectations and contribute to a more sustainable food system.
Sponsor
I was awarded a Rockey FFAR Fellow scholarship, sponsored by the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research’s Rockey FFAR Fellows Fund, which made it possible for me to participate in the program.
More About Me
I embody kindness, approachability, and resilience. In my free time, I can be found outdoors playing a sport, listening to music, singing, dancing, or laughing. I also enjoy being in school, having conversations, and having a nice meal. I have a passion for service and am dedicated to my family, friends, colleagues, and all who get to know and work with me.
