About me
Zilfa Irakoze is a dual-title doctoral candidate in Food Science and International Agriculture & Development at Penn State. She holds a master's degree in food Science and has worked across academia, industry, government, and extension settings, focusing on food safety, applied microbiology, and the development of sustainable solutions to reduce microbial contamination in food systems.
Her dissertation aims to understand the chemical signals used by beneficial molds to reduce deadly toxin-producing molds in food. Beyond the lab, Zilfa is passionate about making science accessible to the end users. So, as an INTAD student, she works with growers and communities to translate research into practical tools for safer, more sustainable food production and handling, both locally and internationally.
At Penn State, Zilfa is actively involved in graduate leadership and service, including initiatives that support graduate student interdisciplinary collaborations and international student communities. Upon graduation, she aspires to pursue a career in research, extension, and leadership roles that bridge scientific findings with real-world impact, helping to strengthen food safety and food security globally.
