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
Jill Lauson oversees GFI’s Research Grant Program, maximizing the impact of GFI-funded research through effective coordination, stakeholder engagement, and systems integration. Areas of expertise: research grant management, researcher support, data management, process improvement
Samantha is responsible for leading the SciTech research funding team. Areas of expertise: research funding, global network building, program management
Nathan manages the Alt Protein Project, in which he empowers student groups around the globe to build the alternative protein field at their university. Areas of expertise: community-building, program operations, early career coaching, education, psychology, neuroscience
Amanda leads SciTech's technical analyses and supports strategic planning of future research focused on the tractability and sustainability of alternative protein technologies. Areas of expertise: environmental science, critical analysis, program management, strategic planning
Lucas Eastham is focused on analyzing fermentation technologies, and progressing their applications in the alternative protein industry. Areas of expertise: microbial biotechnology, upstream strain and process development, downstream process development, bioprocess product commercialization
Adam is focused on engineering a new paradigm in food production. Areas of expertise: microbial fermentation, precision fermentation, molecular biology
Matt Hotze serves as a leading learner who oversees operations of the Science & Technology Department; he identifies and removes roadblocks as the team builds out the ever-expanding map of alternative protein research. Areas of expertise: team building and leadership, nanotechnology, water treatment, scientific publishing, e-biking across Houston
Faraz analyzes how best to scale the cultivated meat industry and ensure that products can enter and grow in the marketplace as quickly as possible. Areas of expertise: biotechnology, cultivated meat, technical analysis and research
Ilya leads all aspects of GFI's programmatic and administrative operations in the U.S., working alongside the U.S. leadership team to ensure GFI is executing towards maximal impact in transforming our food system while building an inclusive, equitable culture where every team member can thrive. Areas of expertise: strategic plan implementation, program leadership, infrastructure and operations
