Afreen Rahman
- Position: Industrial Teaching Assistant
- Email: A.Rahman2@leeds.ac.uk
- Location: 1.16 Stead House, Food Science Building
- Website: LinkedIn
Profile
I joined the School of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Leeds in September 2021 as a Master’s student specializing in Food Quality and Innovation. During my Master’s project, we developed an Oriental Asian-inspired dessert called “Boba Tang”, from concept to launch. I graduated with distinction, receiving awards for Best Student and Best Group Project, including winning the Dragons’ Den-style competition for our New Food Product Development (NPD) project.
After completing my Master’s, I continued my journey at the School for six months in a contract role focused on enhancing industrial engagement for students.
In the food industry, I worked in the technical team, primarily focusing on frozen ready-to-heat fried chicken products. Being part of a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME), my responsibilities were diverse. I conducted internal audits, ensured compliance with BRCGS Global Standards for Food Safety in a Halal-certified food manufacturing plant, performed regular inspections, and addressed quality and safety issues. Additionally, I created product specifications, designed standardized operating procedures (SOPs), and conducted trials for product improvements and new lines.
As an Industrial Teaching Assistant, my primary focus is to incorporate industrial practices and training into the curriculum, equipping our students with the confidence and essential skills needed to excel in an industrial environment. Currently, I’m excited to be working on a groundbreaking project that aims to create Virtual Factory Tours in collaboration with the Digital Education Team and Arla Foods. This innovative approach will transform knowledge delivery and assessment methods, ensuring our students are industry-ready from day one. Leveraging the state-of-the-art HELIX facility at the University of Leeds, we plan to partner with industry auditing softwares for developing authentic assessments. My responsibilities include organizing and leading industry-student engagement events, grading exams and coursework, and lecturing on modules, while also supporting lecturers and teaching fellows to enhance the learning experience. Additionally, I’ve contributed to module and assessment design. Engaging with the Industry Advisory Board and participating in Outreach Programme activities further enriches my role by supporting engagement opportunities.
Responsibilities
- Industrial Teaching Assistant
Qualifications
- MSc. Food Quality and Innovation, 2021-22
- B.Tech Food Technology, 2017-21