Fresher, Healthier, Safer
WHO WE ARE
As a specialist academy dedicated to food microbiology, we can trace our origins back to April 2012 with the establishment of the Australian Food Microbiology Society. Since then, the organisation has morphed, evolved and transformed until December 2019 when Food Microbiology Academy was founded by Dr Philip Button.
We are are firmly committed to sharing understanding of food microbiology to drive innovation and efficiency across the globe. Why would we want to do this? To improve the quality of life of people the world over. That is our WHY.
Our Vision
Our Vision
Influence global improvements in food safety, food preservation and gut health through empowerment of the individual and policy reform.
Our Mission
Our Mission
Our mission is simple – we are working towards being a global influencer in the core areas of our expertise to be able to empower individuals, guide corporations and influence government policy for economic and health improvements.
TLDR: Create and share knowledge of food microbiology for the betterment of society.
Our Values
Our Values
Food Microbiology Academy is committed to creating an inclusive, respectful and equitable environment for all. We value and support diversity in all its forms, including disability, race, gender, sexual orientation and more. Discrimination, harassment and bias have no place here – we strive to ensure a safe and welcoming space for everyone.
Our People
Jun Hao Bai (Philip Button)
Executive Director
Location: Melbourne, Australia.
Philip Button (Bái Jūn Háo) is an entrepreneurial food microbiologist with over 25 years of academic and professional experience. As the Executive Director of Food Microbiology Academy, he focuses on food preservation, safety, and industry education. His career bridges advanced research, university lecturing, and science communication. Passionate about creating knowledge for public good, Jun Hao also champions diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly for women in STEM. He holds a PhD from The University of Melbourne.
Dencelle Mercines
Head of Operations & Executive Coordinator
Location: Manila, Philippines.
Frannie Pineda
Food Safety Microbiologist
Location: Kabacan, Philippines.
Frannie Shane Pineda is a dedicated BS Microbiology graduate from the University of Southern Mindanao. A skilled science communicator, she has hosted numerous academic events and earned awards for her research presentations. Her hands-on experience includes laboratory internships in medical and food microbiology. Frannie is also a proven leader, having held presidential roles in campus and community organisations. Her passion for excellence and strong communication skills make her a dynamic and valuable team member.
Mary Joy Prado
Project Officer (Scientific Scholarly Writing)
Location: Manila, Philippines.
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Mary Joy Prado is a dedicated public health advocate and recent Health Sciences graduate from Ateneo de Manila University. A proven leader, she has extensive experience coordinating community health projects, leading academic research, and managing student organizations. Mary Joy excels in project coordination, stakeholder engagement, and content creation, consistently driving initiatives that promote health equity and education. Her collaborative spirit and people-centered approach make her a valuable contributor to any team focused on creating meaningful, sustainable impact.
Claire Añasco
Head of Marketing and Communications
Location: Davao, Philippines.
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