Matthew D. Moore Named First Eric A. Decker Food Science Scholar

Matthew Moore, associate professor of food science, has been named the inaugural Eric A. Decker Food Science Scholar, a prestigious five-year appointment supported by an endowed fund. The fund honors UMass Amherst Professor Eric Decker for his leadership, groundbreaking research in lipid chemistry, and contributions to food science. 
Moore, an expert in food safety microbiology and food-borne viruses, expressed gratitude for the recognition. “It is an incredible honor to receive this title, and I’m unbelievably lucky to have Eric as a colleague, mentor, and friend who has greatly contributed to my success,” Moore says. 
The endowment has surpassed its $500,000 goal, raising $625,000 to fund ongoing stipends for the Decker Scholar. Moore and future scholars will use these funds to expand their innovative research programs. “Matt is a rising star in food safety,” says Lili He, department head. “This recognition highlights his exceptional contributions, and we are confident he will make an even greater impact in the field.” 
The Eric Decker Scholar exemplifies excellence in teaching, research, and leadership. Selected by the department head and the College of Natural Sciences dean, this position supports UMass Amherst’s mission to retain top faculty and maintain its status as a world leader in food science.