Dr. Laura K. Strawn is a Professor and Extension Specialist in the Department of Food Science and Technology at Virginia Tech. Her research and Extension program focuses on the microbial safety of fruits and vegetables, particularly the ecology, transmission, and management of foodborne pathogens across the produce supply chain. Passionate about risk management, science communication, and translating research into practice, Dr. Strawn strives to make her research accessible and actionable for industry stakeholders, regulators, and consumers, with an emphasis on developing practical, science-based food safety solutions. Dr. Strawn is a dedicated educator, mentor, and leader in professional service. Her contributions have been recognized with the 2021 IAFP Larry Beuchat Young Researcher Award and her selection for the 2024 Alliance to STOP Foodborne Illness 40 Under 40 Class of Food Safety Professionals.