Jessica Westlake

When I applied for the Scientific Assistant Intern position at IFST, I was finishing writing my thesis for my PhD at the University of Bath and it was a perfect fit for my expertise and experience at the time, so I was thrilled when I learned that I had been given the opportunity. I started my internship in September 2025, and it was extended beyond the initial 6 month period until August 2026, which I am grateful for as I have been able to get involved in a number of rewarding projects and task.

My experience at the IFST has been highly rewarding, I have been able to push my knowledge in different areas of food science, gaining a breadth of experience and new contacts which will be helpful in my future career. Throughout my internship I was encouraged to network, attend events and get involved with all areas of the IFST’s work including education and sustainability which provided me with a rounded and full experience. My specific highlights include attending the IFST Autumn Conference.

I would like to thank the whole IFST team and wider members for being so welcoming and supportive. I worked to support Natasha Medhurst (Senior Scientific Affairs Manager) throughout my internship. I would like to extend my gratitude to Natasha for her support and expert guidance which was unwavering. I have developed my knowledge of food science significantly during this internship and I have developed as a person gaining new skills which will help me in the future. I could not recommend this opportunity enough.