Biography:

Ana Rute Neves joined the IMGC Steering Committee in 2025. She holds a PhD in Biochemistry, specializing in Microbial Physiology (ITQB-UNL, Portugal, 2001). With over 25 years of experience in biotechnology and food sciences, Rute has led research groups in both academia and industry, deftly managing multidisciplinary and culturally diverse teams. Since January 2025, she has held the position of Senior Director of Science & Technology at Arla Foods, and in this role is responsible for all scientific and technological areas underlying dairy product research. From 2020 to 2024, she served as the Director of Discover at Arla Foods Ingredients, where she chaired the research portfolio, oversaw research strategy, and delivered new ingredient prototypes and knowledge to the business. Previously, Rute directed the Bacterial Physiology unit in R&D at Chr. Hansen A/S, providing innovative solutions to multiple business units. Her academic roles include that of Adjunct Professor at DTU Bioengineering, and she has previously led various research groups, supervising over 30 students and securing competitive research funding within the field of microbial physiology and engineering. Rute has contributed to over 70 publications in peer-reviewed journals, is listed as a co-inventor on 7 patents, and serves as a board member for various organizations.