With over 10 years of excellence in culinary arts, food science, and product development, I've carved out a niche that uniquely blends my passion for cooking with scientific expertise. My journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Chemistry from Texas A&M University, followed by an Associate of Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts from The Culinary Institute of America, and a Master of Professional Studies in Food Science from Cornell University. This combination of culinary training and scientific knowledge has been the cornerstone of my career which enabled me to excel in roles from Executive Sous Chef to Senior Chef of Culinary Innovation.At Nestlé Health Science, I lead innovative projects that merge culinary creativity with nutritional science. Whether it’s developing new product formulations or perfecting recipes, I thrive on creating health-focused culinary solutions that taste incredible. My expertise spans advanced cooking techniques like sous vide and fermentation, and I take pride in my achievements in product development, particularly in my work with functional ingredients.Safety and quality are at the heart of everything I do. I'm HACCP trained and ServSafe certified, and I deeply understand food safety. My research on the influence of water composition on tea flavor and nutrient extraction has been published, evidencing my commitment to advancing food science. Additionally, as a certified facilitator and super user for MURAL, I excel in fostering collaborative and innovative environments.Teaching and mentoring are also passions of mine. I’ve trained aspiring chefs and facilitated professional development sessions, sharing my knowledge and experience. I translate scientific discoveries, culinary trends, and culinary expertise into tasty, nutritious food options, working with functional ingredients to deliver health benefits. As one of the only chefs at Nestlé who works with these ingredients, I bring a unique perspective to my role. Additionally, I research culinary trends via AI and social media, sharing insights through trend tastings and reports, and keeping my work at the cutting edge of the industry. If you’d like to connect, feel free to reach me at Mf755@cornell.edu.