A COMPETITION to find the region's top young food scientist is set to test their skills to the limit.

Teesside University is hosting the North of England final of the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST) Young Scientist (North) competition in The Curve tomorrow evening (Wednesday 13).

Undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as recent graduates working in the food industry, will present their work to an expert panel of judges.

Among the finalists in the undergraduate category is Teesside University student Zhen Chen, who is in the final year studying BSc (Hons) Food Science and Engineering.

Nigel Atkinson, course leader for BSc (Hons) Food and Nutrition at Teesside, said: “This is the first time we have hosted the regional final of this competition and it is a very prestigious event. It will provide a great opportunity for students to showcase their work and connect with professionals within the food industry.

“The food industry is the UK’s largest industry, and one of the biggest recruiters of science graduates. Graduates from the food courses at Teesside University have very high employability, and many are now in leading roles both locally and nationally in the food industry. We are very proud to support this exciting event.”

The University is the North Eastern Hub of the IFST and uses its expertise in food science, technology and nutrition to foster networking among professionals and engage and support local schools and colleges.