The University of Guelph has named Karen Hand as director of research data strategy for the Food from Thought (FFT) program effective April 30.
Hand will help lead strategic design, development and management of the program’s vision for an integrated, cross-University big data management strategy and platform for FFT research.
“Karen is a fantastic addition to the Food from Thought team,” said Malcolm Campbell, vice-president (research). “She brings extensive experience in agriculture, data science and research. Her expertise will help drive tangible outcomes from the program.”
Hand will work closely with University of Guelph faculty and research staff to integrate and strengthen the University’s data management and analysis capabilities across FFT research teams and University facilities.
A leading data science consultant and researcher, she was previously a graduate adviser and instructor at U of G. She completed her M.Sc. and PhD in biostatistics at the University.
“We are very excited to have Karen return to the University in this capacity, contributing to a program that transforms how we understand and approach food production,” said Prof. Evan Fraser, scientific director of Food from Thought.
Begun in 2016, Food from Thought is a $76.7-million research program funded by the Canada First Research Excellence Fund.