Michael brings hands-on experience across the plant-based protein value chain to GFI, where he analyzes the landscape to identify critical research gaps and direct scientific investment toward the highest-impact opportunities in crop development, ingredient processing, and supply chain. Areas of expertise: Plant protein chemistry and functionality, Crop-to-ingredient pipeline development, Ingredient characterization, Process development and scale-up
Elisha manages GFI's global Research Grant Program's request for proposals and grantee portfolio. Areas of expertise: research funding, non-profit leadership, application and review software, process improvement
Janie Butler develops dynamic educational programs and workforce solutions to cultivate talent in the growing alternative protein sector. Areas of expertise: workforce development, community-building, educational program design, instructional design, cross-disciplinary strategy
Brandi Bangle facilitates GFI's Research Grants Program, manages stakeholder communications, and supports the RFP cycle processes. Areas of expertise: research administration, program coordination, process improvement
Nicholas Goldsmith supports GFI's partnerships with research funders in the US. Areas of expertise: research funding, science policy, grantmaking, merit review, research
Amanda Hildebrand oversees GFI’s Science and Technology department to build a roadmap for accelerating alternative protein research while empowering scientists to execute on this vision. Areas of expertise: bioprocess development and commercialization, project and team leadership, fermentation, kinetic modeling
Bianca leads our efforts to mobilize and energize the alternative protein research community. Areas of expertise: material science & engineering, scientific community-building, public speaking, universities, colleges
Nikhita is focused on the technical landscape of plant-based proteins and how to expand their impact and adoption. Areas of expertise: plant-based product development, materials science, physicochemical characterization, food chemistry
Sharon Lee provides expertise in analyzing data for the Science and Technology department. Areas of expertise: quantitative analysis, writing
