Miss Ishka Bless

Internal Grant Funded Researcher (A)

School of Agriculture, Food and Wine

College of Sciences


I am a food scientist with a deep interest in why we eat what we eat, and how this influences health and society.
 
My research currently involves evidence synthesis relating to the health and environmental impacts of emerging food sources. As part of this work, I am developing resources to support evidence-informed communication and decision-making across the agrifood industry, government, and academia.
 
I have recently submitted my doctoral thesis, which explored the potential for increased consumption of edible insects in regions where they are unfamiliar as food. This interdisciplinary project incorporated sensory and consumer research, as well as insect rearing and compositional analysis. I also considered the challenges associated with communicating about emerging food sources and food sustainability, and how we might do better.
 
Prior to research, I worked in community services, food waste, and education. Drawing on this experience, I have been highly engaged in science outreach alongside my research, with a penchant for storytelling and hands-on workshops. For an example of my recent science outreach work, visit https://tinyurl.com/46wvbejz to learn more about the Edible Insect Adventure at WOMADelaide 2023, developed in collaboration with Wills Projects.

Date Position Institution name
2025 - ongoing Internal Grant Funded Researcher (A) University of Adelaide
2021 - ongoing PhD Candidate University of Adelaide / University of Nottingham

Date Type Title Institution Name Country Amount
2022 Award The Eileen Scott Award for Gender Equity, Diversity and Inclusion The University of Adelaide Australia -

Language Competency
English Can read, write, speak, understand spoken and peer review

Date Institution name Country Title
2021 University of New South Wales Australia Bachelor of Science (Hons)
Year Grant
2021 University of Adelaide Research Scholarship
2022 Charlick Endowment Fund
2022 Inspiring SA Arts and Science Grant
Year Course Role
2022 FOOD SC 3028 Food Sensory Evaluation of Foods Marking
2022 OENOLOGY7019WT Sensory Studies Teaching and marking

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