Dr. Jaykus has served as a trusted scientific advisor to the frozen food industry, helping stakeholders navigate complex enteric virus-related issues in frozen berries and apply science-based approaches to testing, risk assessment, and mitigation. Separately, during the COVID-19 pandemic, she worked closely with food manufacturers to advance scientifically sound strategies to protect essential workers and ensure operational continuity across the food industry.

Most recently, Dr. Jaykus led an international panel of experts charged with evaluating the state of the science surrounding enteric virus detection in berries. The resulting publication, “Detection of Foodborne Viruses in Berries—State of the Science and Considerations for the Future,” provides a comprehensive examination of testing methodologies, confirmatory approaches, result interpretation, and future research needs. While prompted by challenges facing the berry supply chain, the work has broad relevance across the food industry by helping inform science-based approaches to enteric virus prevention, control, and supply chain risk management.

In addition to her research accomplishments, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to education and helped translate complex virological concepts into practical guidance for industry applications. Her efforts have equipped food safety professionals with a deeper understanding of risk factors, preventive measures, and control strategies, fostering a culture of science-based decision-making throughout the frozen food sector.

Dr. Jaykus earned her doctorate in environmental sciences and engineering from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and spent more than 30 years on the faculty at North Carolina State University. In addition to her research accomplishments, she has held leadership positions in several leading food safety and scientific organizations, helping advance collaboration, education, and scientific excellence across the food safety community.

Dr. Jaykus is a former longtime member of the Food Safety Summit Educational Advisory Board, has contributed to Food Safety Magazine, and has been a guest on the Food Safety Matters podcast.