Elizabeth Montoya Rivas
Toronto,Ontario
Summary
Product development driven biology studdent with hands-on experience in food formulation, experimental testing, data tracking, SOP development, and production support across food service, herbal product development, and laboratory environments. Strong background in biological sciences, applied research, and quality focused operations, with a proven ability to work independently and cross functionally in fast paced settings. Passionate about sustainable food systems, plant-based innovation, and translating scientific concepts into scalable, real-world products.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Herbalist and Café Team Lead
Alternity
Toronto, Canada
06.2023 - Current
- From root to drink: designed, developed, tested, and refined herbal beverage formulations, including decoctions, infusions, and blended drinks, ensuring consistency and repeatability.
- Standardized recipes and preparation methods to support quality control, operational efficiency, and scalability.
- Documented procedures, safety protocols, recipe standardization, and equipment guidelines by developing internal SOPs and operator manuals using Notion.io.
- Maintained, calibrated, and operated equipment, ensuring compliance with food safety and sanitation standards.
- Collected customer feedback and iterated formulations based on sensory performance and operational feasibility.
- Supported high volume production while maintaining accuracy, cleanliness, and efficiency.
- Built partnerships by connecting cafe owners with local businesses, artists, and collaborators to strengthen community presence.
International Field Research Volunteer
Discover Eden
, South Africa and Kenya
06.2024 - 08.2024
- Conducted structured experimental research, including data collection, statistical analysis, and reporting.
- Applied RStudio for morphometric data analysis in an independent research project.
- Followed strict research protocols, quality controls, and safety standards in field and lab environments.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams, adapting methods based on environmental and logistical constraints.
Farm Field Apprentice
Toronto Metropolitan University Urban Farm
Toronto, Canada
05.2022 - 08.2022
- Supported experimental growing trials for 20+ crop varieties, tracking growth, yield, soil health, and pest impact.
- Applied regenerative agriculture techniques and evaluated outcomes to optimize plant health and productivity.
- Conducted soil assessments, composting, and nutrient management using data-driven approaches.
- Documented farming protocols, and assisted in developing educational materials for public tours.
- Completed an independent project proposing a scalable green-roof food production model.
Front of House
Fruitful Market
Toronto, Ontario
06.2019 - 05.2020
- Worked in high volume kitchen and food service environments, consistently following standardized recipes, food safety protocols, and sanitation procedures.
- Supported batch production, ingredient preparation, and basic equipment operation while maintaining efficiency under time constraints.
- Assisted with inventory tracking, product ordering, receiving, and supplier coordination to support daily operations.
- Handled customer communications, order intake, distributor coordination, and message management with accuracy and professionalism.
- Demonstrated strong attention to detail, reliability, and adherence to organizational procedures and food handling standards.
- Delivered high-quality customer experiences through clear communication, problem-solving, and responsive service.
Education
Post-Baccalaureate Diploma - Practical Herbalism
Wild Rose College
04-2028
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University)
Toronto, ON04-2027
Skills
- 5 years of combined experience in hospitality, wellness, and food services, with a proven ability to thrive both independently and in diverse team environments
- Experienced in food formulation, recipe development, standardization, experimental testing, and validation
- Proficient in data collection, statistical analysis, and reporting (RStudio, Excel)
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and project management skills with ability to exercise independent judgment in fast-paced environments
- Strong understanding of laboratory equipment, analytical instruments, and data analysis tools to support experimental design, testing, and results validation
- Knowledgeable in food safety, sanitation compliance, and quality assurance protocols
- Strong interpersonal, client engagement, and community building abilities; bilingual in English and Spanish
Timeline
International Field Research Volunteer
Discover Eden
06.2024 - 08.2024
Herbalist and Café Team Lead
Alternity
06.2023 - Current
Farm Field Apprentice
Toronto Metropolitan University Urban Farm
05.2022 - 08.2022
Front of House
Fruitful Market
06.2019 - 05.2020
Post-Baccalaureate Diploma - Practical Herbalism
Wild Rose College
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University)