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Lili He, professor and head of the Department of Food Science in the College of Natural Sciences at UMass Amherst, has received the inaugural Phi Tau Sigma Mid-Career Accomplishment Award.

Phi Tau Sigma is the honor society of food science and technology. Its new Mid-career Accomplishment Award recognizes members working in academia, industry, government or professional associations who have demonstrated significant skills and made impactful contributions to food science and technology, closely allied industries and society. Eligible recipients have between 10 and 20 years of professional experience.

He joined the UMass Amherst faculty in 2012 and has become an internationally recognized researcher in analytical food chemistry and food safety. Her research integrates innovative spectroscopic technologies with translational approaches to address critical challenges in food safety, food quality and public health. Her work has resulted in more than 165 peer-reviewed publications, patented technologies and real-world applications, including the startup BactiSee, which provides rapid and reliable detection of bacteria on surfaces such as those in food processing plants, hospitals, gyms and other public environments.

In addition to her research, He founded and directs the Raman, IR and XRF Core Facility at the Institute for Applied Life Sciences. She has served as head of the Department of Food Science since 2023 and has led major Future of Food initiative-aligned events, including the Food 2036 workshop, which brought together academic, industry, government and nonprofit leaders to consider the opportunities and challenges shaping the next decade of food innovation.

“It is especially meaningful to receive the inaugural award because it recognizes both scientific impact and service to the food science community,” He says. “My work has always been strengthened by the students, colleagues and industry partners who help translate research into practical solutions for food safety and public health.”

The recognition continues a strong record of Phi Tau Sigma leadership and achievement within the food science department. In 2025, associate professor Matthew Moore received the society’s Early Career Accomplishment Award. Moore was subsequently elected president-elect of Phi Tau Sigma.