Min Chae Jin
La Crescenta
Summary
Experienced with developing and implementing research strategies that drive product innovation and improvement. Utilizes collaborative approach to lead cross-functional teams effectively. Knowledge of industry trends and regulatory requirements ensures successful project outcomes.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Research and Development Manager
SK Laboratories
Anaheim, CA
11.2023 - Current
- I handle 10-20 projects at a time, personally conducting all aspects of flavor development, procurement, project management, sample creation, and upscaling.
- Ensure that specified products meet certification requirements like Allergen-Free, Non-GMO, Organic, etc.
- Work in unison with Production and Quality to optimize products by reducing production time and labor wherever possible.
- Assist in reviewing finished product formulas and writing instructions for the Master Batch Records.
- Advise customers on raw material functionality and cost-saving opportunities to enhance product value and client satisfaction.
- Coordinate with vendors on deadlines, product expectations, and required revisions for material based on evaluation, 3rd party testing, and benchtop performance.
- Generate supplement and nutritional facts panel per 21 CFR compliance.
R&D Food Technologist
SK Laboratories
Anaheim, CA
10.2022 - 11.2023
- Developed a wide range of products (pre-workouts, hydration, adaptogens, protein, greens, fiber, probiotics) with unique flavor profiles that mask off-notes and bitter profiles.
- Supported the successful launch of 100+ customer products from concept to market.
- Optimized current products through stability and benchtop testing (Powder Flowability, Density Testing, etc.)
- Analyzed products through the pilot-to-commercialization stage gates to eliminate upscaling issues.
- Troubleshot on-the-floor production issues with quick turnaround times.
- Prepared customer samples within 1 to 2 weeks turnaround times.
- Evaluated supplier documentation (CoAs, specification sheets, nutrition information, composition, general statements, trademark ingredients, organic certifications) for new and existing raw materials.
- Organoleptically evaluate new ingredients and finished products for finished product specifications.
- Organized and maintained laboratory inventory.
- Partnered closely with QC, QA, and Operations to ensure smooth scale-up from benchtop pilot to commercialization.
Graduate Research Assistant
Chapman University
Orange, CA
06.2021 - 08.2022
- Redesigned two food processing labs to replicate current manufacturing processes for vegan sausages and milk.
- Led MicroThermic projects for three clients, specializing in oat milk, creamers, and juices.
- Trained students on creating SOPs and operating industrial food processing equipment (UHT & HTST pasteurizers and homogenizer).
Education
Master of Science - Food Science
Chapman University
Orange County, CA05-2023
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Major
Chapman University
Orange County, CA05-2021
Skills
- Product optimization
- Organoleptic evaluation of raw materials
- Strategic planning and execution
- Project and time management
- Client and vendor relationship
- Customer insight
- Cross-functional teamwork
- Attention to detail
- Critical thinking
- Active listening
- Asana
- Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
Certification
- HACCP Certification | International HACCP Alliance (Issued: Aug 2021)
- PCQI Certification | Food Safety Preventive Controls Alliance (Credential ID 64ae770c; Issued: Aug 2021)
Timeline
Research and Development Manager
SK Laboratories
11.2023 - Current
R&D Food Technologist
SK Laboratories
10.2022 - 11.2023
Graduate Research Assistant
Chapman University
06.2021 - 08.2022
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Major
Chapman University
Master of Science - Food Science
Chapman University