Szymon Lara

Dr. Szymon Lara is a Lecturer and Module Leader at the University of West London's London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism, with a joint affiliation as a Graduate Student in Science at the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew. His research centers on food security, underutilized crops, and sensory analysis, notably through the EU-funded DIVERSICROP project. He teaches across multiple programs including BSc Nutrition and Food Management and MSc Food Business Management.

Research interests span:

• Food and nutrition security
• Neglected crop revitalization
• Sensory evaluation methodologies
• Sustainable agri-food systems
• Culinary innovation for biodiversity

His recent publications (2023-2025) focus on pea diversity, insect-based food acceptance, and sustainable crop terminology, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to food system resilience. Collaborative projects include diabetes management interventions with the West London NHS Trust.