Every day, we at the IFIC Foundation are working hard to bring you great content by qualified experts. But who are these experts toiling away? In our series “Better Know a Dietitian” (or an expert in nutrition, food safety, or agriculture), we introduce you to the smart folks who make sure that you’ve got the very best information in food safety, agriculture, and nutrition.

We invite you to meet Tamika Sims, PhD, our Director of Food Technology Communications. Tamika joins us from CropLife America and previously the International Water Bottle Association. Her goal is to showcase what modern farming looks like and how food gets from the farm to your fork. 

How do you sum up your background in one sentence: I have an extensive background in microbiology, notably, I received my doctorate degree from studying HIV infection progression.

My favorite movie is: This is a tough one. I have to say it’s a tie between Inception, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, and Lord of the Rings: Return of the King.  

My background relates to agricultural technology by: My background is pretty diverse. I have my PhD in virology/immunology and my master’s in biomedical science. So while I was not trained as an agricultural scientist, my professional background, that has used my scientific foundation, has shaped me tremendously to be more of a food, beverage and agricultural scientist. I worked previously at the International Bottled Water Association and CropLife America.

One thing I cook well is: Red Velvet cake … wait, that’s baking. I make pretty awesome curry chicken.

This morning for breakfast I had: low-fat, plain Greek yogurt, with low-calorie sweetener and blueberries. Oh, and coffee!

One new up-and-coming agricultural technology I’m excited about is: CRISPR technology is pretty exciting! While it is somewhat in “fledgling” stages for industry use, it has so much promise to be used for advances in food and medicine.

My secret talent is: Does finding a good sale count? I love to shop, but I SUPER love a good sale. I can always sniff them out.

One part of the food system I’d like to see changed is: Food security and “food deserts” are a big deal. The idea of not being able to buy many healthy foods because of your location blows my mind. People should not have to struggle to find healthy foods to eat. Deciding what to eat to be healthy is hard enough.

The best thing about working at the IFIC Foundation is: I enjoy how our team combines knowledge and creativity. I don’t think you could find a better group of nutrition experts and scientists that are more creative, innovative and fun.