Research chairs

Dr. Rotimi Aluko

Canada Research Chair in Bioactive Peptides - Tier 1

Bioactive peptides are short food protein fragments that can have a positive impact on our health. Given their antimicrobial, anti-oxidant and other promising biological properties, scientists are exploring their potential for use in functional foods and "nutraceuticals." But to make the most of them, we need to know more about what types of natural amino acids are on the amino acid chain, and how they are arranged. Dr. Rotimi Aluko is trying to shed light on how the chain arrangement of amino acids affects the potency of the peptides that help maintain normal body functions. Ultimately, he hopes his research will lead to new peptide tools that can improve human nutrition.

Dr. Nandika Bandara

Canada Research Chair in Food Proteins - Tier 2

Dr. Nandika Bandara is integrating material science and nanotechnology approaches to adapt plant proteins for use in bioactive delivery platforms, like films and hydrogels. He and his research team are developing novel protein ingredients and biomaterials from low-value crops and agricultural by-products. An important part of their work is understanding how new food processing methods affect proteins and other food components at the molecular level.

Dr. Dilshan Benaragama

Manitoba Crop Protection Chair in Weed Management

Dr. Dilshan Benaragama explores weed adaptations to diverse crop management practices and developing integrated management strategies. His research seeks to integrate digital tools in weed research as well as develop precision weed management and decision-making strategies for producers. With strong industry support, this chair is designed to help producers better understand the options and value of experimentally proven systems strategies for effective crop protection.

Dr. Trust Beta

Canada Research Chair in Grain-Based Functional Foods - Tier 1

Consuming whole grains is associated with reduced incidence of chronic diseases that are major causes of illness and death in Canada, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, obesity and cancer. Research by Dr. Trust Beta has confirmed that whole grains are excellent sources of biologically active compounds, such as dietary fibre, polyphenols and carotenoids. These have potent antioxidant, health-promoting properties. The goal of research by Dr. Beta and her team is to unlock their full potential and use in innovative food products.

UofM Today Nov 2018

Dr. Martin Entz

Jarislowsky Chair in Natural Systems Agriculture for Climate Solutions

Dr. Entz seeks to transform agronomic practices to reduce greenhouse gas emission, enhance carbon sequestration and create a more resilient agri-food system. His program blends modern agricultural technology with natural processes with special emphasis on biodiversity, integration/recycling and perenniality while also incorporating wisdom from Indigenous food systems.

Dr. Hailong He

Canada Research Chair in Water Management for Sustainable Agriculture - Tier 2

Dr. He and his research team are developing multifunctional sensors to uncover the mechanisms of water and heat transport in soils in order to better quantify snowmelt infiltration in cropland. They are also establishing best management practices that agricultural producers can use to enhance climate change resiliency and maximize production. Ultimately, they hope to develop tools and strategies to improve the resilience of agricultural and agri-food systems.

UM Today Oct 2, 2024

Dr. Filiz Koksel

Dr. Natalie Riediger, assistant professor with the department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences

Manitoba Strategic Research Chair in Sustainable Protein

Dr. Koksel seeks to advance sustainable agri-food innovation and leadership in plant and animal protein research and innovation in alignment with the Manitoba Protein Advantage Strategy. She will work with stakeholders across academic, industry, government and non-profits to create solutions that advance food security and climate resilience.

UM Today July 3, 2025

Dr. Linda Schott

Research Chair in Potato Sustainability

Linda's research focuses on addressing key challenges in potato production, including agronomy, water management, soil health, pest and disease management, and storage. The overall goal of her work is to improve the sustainability of potato production by developing best management practices through applied research, extension and outreach activities, and the training of the next generation of industry professionals.

Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences

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Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences

University of Manitoba

Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences

Dr. Rotimi Aluko

Canada Research Chair in Bioactive Peptides - Tier 1

Dr. Nandika Bandara

Canada Research Chair in Food Proteins - Tier 2

Dr. Dilshan Benaragama

Manitoba Crop Protection Chair in Weed Management

Dr. Trust Beta

Canada Research Chair in Grain-Based Functional Foods - Tier 1

Dr. Martin Entz

Jarislowsky Chair in Natural Systems Agriculture for Climate Solutions

Dr. Hailong He

Canada Research Chair in Water Management for Sustainable Agriculture - Tier 2

Dr. Filiz Koksel

Manitoba Strategic Research Chair in Sustainable Protein

Dr. Linda Schott

Research Chair in Potato Sustainability