Graduate Research Assistant / August, 2021 — December

Conducted systematic investigation on interfacial behavior and digestion dynamics of WPA stabilized emulsions, identifying an optimal protein-to-oil ratio yielding 40% higher lipid digestion efficiency. Leveraged SAXS to characterize internal morphology and analyze supramolecular structures. Developed heat-induced WPA for high-acid beverages, achieving 98% solubility, clarity, and taste retention over 4-week ambient storage with excellent stability and demonstrated scalable processability. Engineered protein microgels as emulsifiers to regulate lipid digestion and bioactive release, enhancing lipid digestion rate by 2.5-fold and curcumin bioaccessibility by 60%. Re-established a rapid UHPLC method for direct quantification of lactobionic acid and residual lactose, achieving over 90% recovery. Designed spray-dried protein-polyphenol complexes with tunable encapsulation and stability, enhancing particle stability by 30% and antioxidant potential by 25%. Investigated adsorption kinetics and viscoelasticity of milk protein at oil-water interfaces, correlating interfacial elasticity with 35% reduction in creaming and enhanced long-term emulsion stability. Explored synergistic action of transglutaminase and protease in modulating pea protein gelation and texture, improving viscosity and creaminess by 40%, reducing syneresis by 25%, and raising consumer acceptance by 1.2 points. Delivered invited lectures on plant-based dairy applications.

Lab Manager / August, 2021 — December

Supervised institutional lab safety protocols, chemical hygiene plans, and waste management regulations. Oversaw day-to-day lab operations and managed PCard purchases, inventory, budget management ($20K/year), and recordkeeping for monthly reconciliations and audits. Onboarded and trained new graduate students and interns on standard lab procedures and instrument SOPs.

Nutrition Intern / August, 2020 — May, 2021

Provided direct education with Policy System and Environmental change (PSE) initiatives. Developed and implemented course curriculum videos for students and participants in the SNAP-Ed Program.

Dining Diplomat, Nutrition Assistant / January, 2018 — May, 2020

Organized campus health and wellness events and conducted detailed allergen and nutrition audits. Designed 300+ balanced meal plans and led cooking demonstrations promoting healthy eating.

Graduate Teaching Assistant / Lecturer / January, 2022 — December, 2024

Designed and delivered laboratory activities connecting food chemistry principles to product development for FS 502. Mentored and evaluated 60+ undergraduate students providing individualized feedback. Created and facilitated laboratory experiments demonstrating ingredient functionality in food systems for FS 591. Managed weekly lab sessions and assessments. Delivered lectures on food digestion and absorption for FSNTR 501, applying research expertise. Assisted with grading, discussion facilitation, and office-hour support. Assisted professor in preparing instructional materials for NTR 495. Instructed case studies in public health and facilitated student discussion board for NTR 500.

President / Career Development Committee Chair / June, 2023 — June, 2025

Led a national board representing 500+ graduate students across academic and industry sectors. Oversaw major initiatives including symposiums, career development webinars, and travel grant programs. Directed multiple committees (Outreach, Career Development, and DEI) and collaborated with faculty and industry partners to foster professional development and interdisciplinary engagement.