Dr. Chyer Kim receives 2026 Star Award in Outstanding Research for Food Safety and Microbiology
Dr. Chyer Kim, Professor and Enhance-FI System Lead with the Agricultural Research Station, is the 2026 recipient of the Star Award in the Category of Outstanding Research/Scholarship (50% or higher commitment). This accolade recognizes contributions to Virginia State University through excellence in research, scholarship, student mentorship, outreach, and professional service. In Dr. Kim's case, that excellence comes through the Food Safety and Microbiology program, which, under his leadership, focuses on food safety, microbiology, antimicrobial resistance, and value-added agricultural innovations that support the agricultural industry and public health. "Through this work," says Dr. Kim, "I have secured competitive external funding, published peer-reviewed research, and shared findings at regional, national, and international conferences."
Dr. Kim's current research applies a One Health perspective to address critical challenges facing agriculture, food systems, and public health. "One Health" can be described as a philosophy that recognizes the interconnectedness among the many questions and issues that scientists research. Researchers like Dr. Kim are guided by a One Health mindset to take a holistic view of scientific inquiry to pursue true interdisciplinary collaboration. In addition to supporting these goals, Dr. Kim says that this award will help to inspire the Enhance-FI team to "further strengthen our research programs, expand collaborations with stakeholders and industry partners, and advance innovations that connect food, nutrition, and health."
Some past investigations from the Food Safety and Microbiology program have explored antimicrobial resistance in local grocery store products, raising questions about how food safety practices are put in place with large national chain stores versus small businesses. Understanding where food safety practices break down and why can not only keep consumers informed about potential health and safety risks in their diets, but can also help indicate where resources might be allocated to ensure better adherence to standards in the future. This is one way the Enhance-FI system marshals forward VSU's proud tradition of carrying out the land-grant mission. This work, alongside ardent dedication to student mentorship and agricultural innovation, continues to bring about the meaningful impacts that rightly establish this system as a pillar of the College of Agriculture's "Rooted and Rising" philosophy.
Although the Star Award bears his name, Dr. Kim is not one to accept all the credit. Receiving this award has been "humbling and deeply meaningful," he says, but his own plaudits are not at the forefront of his mind. "One of the most important things I would like to emphasize is that this award is not about me alone. It reflects the dedication, hard work, and perseverance of many people who have contributed to our research, outreach, and educational efforts over the years." He goes on to acknowledge the many students, colleagues and coworkers whose work he says often goes unrecognized despite being instrumental to success. "I would like to dedicate this award to those individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes, often under challenging conditions, whether in the heat of summer, the cold of winter, rain, or snow. Their contributions are essential to the success of our programs and the advancement of Virginia State University's mission. This recognition belongs as much to them as it does to me, and I am deeply grateful for their dedication, support, and shared commitment to excellence. I would also like to acknowledge and thank my family for their sacrifices, understanding and support, particularly during the many hours spent away from home pursuing research, outreach and professional responsibilities. Their encouragement and willingness to shoulder additional responsibilities at home have been invaluable to my achievements."
Overall, Dr. Kim views the Star Award as a deeply meaningful recognition and a reminder of the grace and support he has received throughout his career, often expressing that "I am better than I deserve."
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