Joseph D. Eifert

Joseph D. Eifert is a Professor and Graduate Program Director in the Department of Food Science & Technology at Virginia Tech. He holds a Ph.D., M.S., and B.S. in Food Science/Biology from Virginia Tech and Loyola Marymount University. His research focuses on food microbiology, particularly pathogen reduction on food surfaces, microbial sampling techniques, and food safety education. He has extensive professional experience, including roles at the FDA and Nestlé, and teaches courses like Global Food Laws, Food Safety Regulations, and Food Microbiology.

Research Interests:

• Pathogen control on food and contact surfaces
• Optimizing microbiological sampling plans
• Food safety educational materials for Spanish-speaking workers
• Risk assessment for Campylobacter/Salmonella exposure

Teaching: He teaches courses on food laws, food safety, and food microbiology at both undergraduate and graduate levels. His courses address global regulations and practical food safety challenges.

Advising & Grants: Directed/co-advised over 20 theses/dissertations since 2010, focusing on topics like Listeria control, produce safety, and behavioral food safety practices. His work has been funded through grants addressing microbial risk reduction and industry collaboration.

Labs/Teams: Engaged in interdisciplinary projects with industry and regulatory agencies, developing practical solutions for food safety challenges in processing and retail environments.