Chamali Kodikara of the University of Manitoba is the newly elected president-elect of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) Student Association (IFTSA) and represents a rising generation of globally minded food scientists with a distinctly Canadian perspective.
“I am truly honoured to be elected,” says Kodikara. “As a student, IFT has provided me with a wonderful platform to expand my knowledge, connect with inspiring leaders, and contribute positively to my community.”
Kodikara is currently pursuing a PhD in food and human nutritional sciences at the University of Manitoba, where her research zeroes in on detecting ergot alkaloids in wheat and using cold plasma processing to combat mycotoxins—an issue with major implications for global food safety and grain quality. Her academic journey began with a bachelor’s degree in animal sciences from the University of Peradeniya in Sri Lanka, followed by a master’s in food science at Manitoba.
But it’s not just her lab work that’s getting noticed. Kodikara is a force in student leadership and scientific outreach. As president of the Food and Human Nutritional Sciences Graduate Students Association, she founded the University of Manitoba’s IFTSA chapter—only the third Canadian chapter in IFTSA history. She currently serves as vice-president of competitions for the 2024–2025 IFTSA cycle, where she helps run global student competitions and engagement opportunities. She also chaired the Graduate Research Video Competition at IFT FIRST: Annual Event and Expo, one of the organization’s flagship showcases for young science talent.
Kodikara’s involvement with IFT runs deep. She’s an active participant in several specialized membership groups, including the Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods Division, the International Division, and the Women’s Resource Group. Outside IFT, she’s also played leadership roles with AOAC International and the Canadian Centre for Agri-Food Research in Health and Medicine.
For Kodikara, the work ahead is about more than her own career trajectory—it’s about building bridges. “I look forward to working with my team to make IFTSA more accessible to students in food sciences around the globe and to celebrate the vibrant, diverse community that unites us,” she says.
