K-State names new grain science department head

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K-State names new grain science department head

24 May 2024

Annie Hollon

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MANHATTAN, KS — The College of Agriculture at Kansas State University announced that after an extensive national search, Joseph Awika, PhD, has accepted the role of department head of Grain Science and Industry, director of the International Grains Program Institute, and director of the Food Science Institute, effective Aug. 18.

“I am looking forward to working with Dr. Awika and supporting him to implement his forward-looking vision for the department,” said Ernie Minton, PhD, Kansas State University’s Eldon Gideon Dean, College of Agriculture and director, K-State Research and Extension. “Joe is known internationally for his excellence in research and in the classroom. His experience will build upon and grow our world-renowned programs in grain and food sciences.”

Awika was previously the department head of Food Science and Technology at Texas A&M University. He joins K-State’s College of Agriculture as it ramps up its Agriculture Innovation Initiative, which includes upgrades to several facilities. The college recently held a groundbreaking for its Global Center for Grain and Food Innovation, which will serve as the core facility of the college’s ag initiative.

“I have no doubt he will carry forward the tradition of excellence for all three of these organizations and continue accelerating the momentum the university has as we begin building the Global Center for Grain and Food Innovation,” Minton continued.

The college opened the search for this permanent role in October 2023.

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