Andrew Tilley

I am an experienced food scientist and lecturer committed to advancing food science and supporting the Australian food industry. I do this by working collaboratively with the Australian food industry, addressing key challenges and training the next generation of food scientists.

Background

Prior to joining Murdoch University, I worked in a wide range of roles across different food groups including seafood, horticulture, ice-cream, chilled/frozen meals, confectionary, and meat processing. Most recently I worked as an Innovation Food Technologist at Vesco Foods leading product development projects for several own and contract brands across two national sites for national and international markets. I was also co-founder of the food manufacturing startup, Gelavo, which processed low-grade produce into avocado-based ice-cream for the domestic market.

Research

Our group has strong links with the Australian food industry and focusses on producing industry-relevant research outcomes. My research focusses on adding value to the Australian food industry by investigating:

1. Shelf-life extension of processed food and horticultural produce
2. Ways to improve nutritonal quality with a focus on phenolic compounds and dietary fibre
3. Utilisation of food waste streams
4. How changes to formulation and processing can impact product quality

Teaching

I currently teach Food Science and Food Product Development to undergraduate and postgraduate Food Science & Nutrition students at Murdoch University's South Street and Nambeelup campuses.

I supervise honours, masters and doctoral research students.

Other Roles

From July 2024 to December 2025 I was the Research Engagement Manager at the Sustainable Innovative Food Technology (SIFT) Centre where I provided product development support for food industry clients and facilitated engagement with researchers at Murodch University.

I am currently the chair of the Australian Institute of Food Science & Technology's (AIFST) WA branch committee. The WA branch committee repesents food scientists in WA and coordinates a wide range of professional development and networking events each year.

I am the WA state lead in the Australian Food Innovation Network (AFIN).