Sumi Sapkota is Oat Technician with AEGIC, providing vital technical support to the oat team in delivering market-focused research and solutions. Sumi assists AEGIC’s oat research through sample preparation, grain and flour quality testing, and end-product quality analysis, including the coordination of sensory evaluations.
AEGIC’s oat-focused projects, supported by the WA Government through the Processed Oat Partnership, aim to capture increased opportunities for Australian oats by developing new technologies and applications for oats in food.
A key aspect of Sumi’s role involves the procurement, commissioning, calibration and maintenance of oat laboratory equipment to support AEGIC’s oat research. She also plays an important role in stakeholder engagement by supporting the oat team in hosting visiting delegations and showcasing AEGIC’s advanced oat technologies and quality testing capabilities.
For Sumi, increasing value in the Australian grains industry means enhancing the quality and global competitiveness of Australian grain products. It is about finding new and smarter ways to use Australian grains to meet evolving market demands, both locally and internationally. This includes improving production efficiency, developing high value grain-based products, and building strong relationships with global customers. It’s about ensuring long term sustainability and profitability for Australian growers and the wider supply chain.
Originally from Nepal, Sumi achieved a Master of Science (Food Science and Technology) from Curtin University before working as a quality technician at a major dairy, helping to ensure all products met safety, compliance and quality standards.
Sumi’s favourite part of her role is supporting the AEGIC oat team in developing novel technologies that enhance the versatile application of oats in food. She enjoys collaborating with a team of highly skilled colleagues and working under the guidance of a supportive manager. Sumi values the impactful work AEGIC is doing and takes pride in her hands-on contributions in the laboratory. She is passionate about playing a part in research that improves the quality and performance of Australian oats in global markets.