CPS announces 2024 research priorities and calls for preliminary proposals

Sept. 6, 2023

Deadline: Pre-proposal and signed Guidance Receipt Acknowledgement must be emailed to [email protected]. Email must be received by CPS no later than 12:00 noon Pacific Standard Time on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 – no exceptions will be made to this deadline; paper copies will not be accepted. Items must be sent in one email as two separate attachments. 

Office Hours Program: Highly encouraged, September 18-22, October 4-8, virtual meetings, usually 30 minutes

Step 1: Contact CPS, [email protected], requesting a time to visit with members of the technical committee (or other experts) to refine research proposals to ensure they meet priorities — and the industry's needs. The request should include research priority, specific questions, and three date preferences with time of day.

Step 2: Baylee Dwyer, executive assistant, will coordinate a Zoom call.

 Industry Facility Tours: Research scientists preparing a proposal have an opportunity to tour a produce facility before they submit a proposal. 

Step 1: Facilities are available throughout the United States. Contact CPS for a current list of facilities available to tour. If you do not see a facility that covers your interest, please let us know. 

Step 2: Send CPS a written request to [email protected], for the company name, contact information as well as state the purpose of the visit. Scientist will make arrangements directly with the industry contacts.

Note: Research scientists cover their own travel expenses.

Postgraduate Industry – Immersion Program for MSc. Candidates

The Center for Produce Safety has embarked on a pilot program initiative specific for postgraduate students working towards a Master of Science (MSc.). This CPS program is designed to provide a unique research immersion experience built around a focused research objective of mutual interest and benefit to the student, the academic major advisor and the host produce industry firm(s). This program aims to support the continuing professional development of promising MSc. postgraduate students while conducting produce food safety research in a non-academic environment. For more details, contact [email protected]. Masters students are required to make an appointment for Office Hours (above). 

About Center for Produce Safety

The 501(c)(3) nonprofit Center for Produce Safety (CPS) focuses exclusively on funding science, finding solutions and fueling change in fresh produce food safety. The center is a unique partnership, bringing together leaders from industry, government, and the scientific and academic communities. CPS funds credible, independent research worldwide, then transfers that knowledge and tools to industry and other stakeholders through an annual Research Symposium, its website, webinars, trade press guest columns and other outreach. Since it was founded in 2007, Center for Produce Safety has invested more than $36 million to fund produce-specific safety research. For more information, visit www.centerforproducesafety.org.