Aldrin Duarte
MS Food Science
Keller,TX
Summary
Experienced, collaborative, and results-driven professional with a strong work-ethic and exceptional relationship-building skills. A master of food science with 4 years of experience in the flavor and food industry, skilled in communicating complex scientific concepts clearly and effectively. Proven ability to establish trust and rapport with industry professionals, fostering long-term partnerships. Resourceful in product development with a science-driven approach. Currently a R&D food scientist at CTI Foods, and the Chair of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) DFW Longhorn section. Adept at working cross-functionally to support innovation and optimize processes, with a strong eagerness to understand business strategies and expand expertise in sales and drive business growth.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
R&D Food Scientist
CTI Foods
Saginaw, TX
05.2023 - Current
- Managed and contributed to several projects focused on new product development, product matching, cost optimization, and process improvements, from concept to commercialization.
- Implemented functional, cost-saving systems to reduce the use of heavy cream and whole milk, resulting in cost savings.
- Collaborated effectively with cross-functional teams to execute various tasks, such as new ingredient approvals, ingredient shelf-life extensions, and customer specification management.
- Led the development of various ingredient repositories (pasta, cheeses, starches, bases) and conducted sensory tests to support informed ingredient selection for future formula developments.
- Performed a range of scientific tests to analyze the effects of processing on pasta hydration (hydration curves) and starch gelation behavior (microscopic observation) and compiled detailed reports on the findings.
- Maintained strong relationships with vendors through regular rapport-building activities, including dining together, to ensure open communication and successful partnerships.
Sr. R&D Food Technologist
7-Eleven Inc.
Irving, TX
09.2020 - 08.2021
- Assisted product developing teams in formulating donut glazes, toppings, cupcakes, hot food, and cold RTE food prototypes from concept to launch.
- Led Accelerated Shelf Life studies and compiled detailed schematic records by effectively customizing Texture Analyzer protocols (SOPs) on TA.XT C+ Texture Analyzer with Exponent Connect® AND comparing with subjective data obtained from sensory evaluations using RedJade®.
- Regularly updated raw material specifications for quality and HACCP standards using Oracle®.
Lab Assistant and Graduate Student Assistant
Chapman University
Orange, CA
06.2019 - 03.2020
- Effectively operated freeze dryer, blast freezer, cabinet dehydrator, and UHT/HTST pasteurizer with inline GEA homogenizer and sterile product outlet, for various projects.
Jr. Analytical Chemist
Firmenich Aromatics Pvt. Ltd
Mumbai, India
03.2016 - 04.2017
- Collaborated with team of Analytical Chemists and conducted fragrance chemical profile analyses (Agilent ChemStation® software) by interpreting chromatograms obtained from GCMS sample runs.
- Utilized SAP® ERP software for regulatory compliance checks, financial management, and to order and track crude natural and synthetic fragrance samples from various suppliers worldwide.
Education
Master of Science - Food Science
Chapman University
Orange, CABachelor of Science - Chemistry
Jai Hind College
MumbaiBachelor of Science - Geology
St. Xavier’s College
MumbaiSkills
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Active listening and empathy to understand client needs
- Ability to establish trust and credibility quickly
- Genesis® R&D Food Formulation and Labeling
- DOMO® Business Intelligence and Data Visualization
- Exponent Connect® TAXT C Texture Analyzer
- RedJade® Sensory Analysis
- Oracle® Specification Management
- SAP® ERP
- StatCrunch® Statistical Software
- ChemStation® Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer
- ChemDraw® Professional
Certification
- TA.XT Plus Texture Analyzer & Exponent®
- ACSM Certified Personal Trainer with a minor in human nutritional science, 2017.
Languages
Native proficiency in English; limited working proficiency in Hindi, Marathi (State language of Maharashtra, India), and French.
Timeline
R&D Food Scientist
CTI Foods
05.2023 - Current
Sr. R&D Food Technologist
7-Eleven Inc.
09.2020 - 08.2021
Lab Assistant and Graduate Student Assistant
Chapman University
06.2019 - 03.2020
Jr. Analytical Chemist
Firmenich Aromatics Pvt. Ltd
03.2016 - 04.2017
Master of Science - Food Science
Chapman University
Bachelor of Science - Chemistry
Jai Hind College
Bachelor of Science - Geology
St. Xavier’s College