Matthew Burnstein
Brookhaven,GA
Summary
Experienced organic chemist and brewing scientist with 10 years of expertise in beverage quality. Committed to enhancing product value and ensuring an exceptional consumer experience. Skilled in streamlining lab processes and fostering collaboration across departments to optimize throughput and maintain high-quality standards.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Quality Assurance and R&D Manager
SweetWater Brewing Company
10.2017 - 11.2024
- Managed a team of lab technicians to conduct regular product analysis and data analysis.
- Adapted quality plan frequently for new products, staffing changes, and projection adjustments, with a heavy focus on preventative measures.
- Implemented plans to qualify alternate suppliers or new materials for manufacturing.
- Partnered with sales, strategy and business development to identify new product opportunities and track project progress.
- Built sensory program and extended product shelf-life without sacrificing quality with sensory data.
- Oversaw two successful expansions (2300bbls and 4000bbls) and implemented quality plans for seamless activation.
- Created 30 unique beverage recipes across multiple categories from scratch to full product launch.
QA/QC Manager
Three Taverns Brewery
02.2016 - 09.2017
- Maintained high standards of sanitation and product quality; designed standard operating procedures for analysis and processing of beer for a 7,000bbl/yr brewery.
- Trained and managed employees in following good manufacturing practices.
- Built sensory program for analysis of final product; curated a product archive to evaluate aged quality.
- Monitored staff organization and suggested improvements to daily functionality.
- Brewed test batches to experiment with process optimization and recipe development.
- Inspected products and worker progress throughout production.
QA/QC Manager
Swamp Head Brewery
01.2014 - 01.2016
- Set up a 200sqft laboratory for a 12,000bbl/yr brewery during and after construction.
- Identified and eliminated a multi-point infection through implementing new thorough process analysis and sanitation improvements.
- Developed propagation system and procedures for brewing yeast and bacteria from plate colonies to full brewery pitches.
- Built sensory program for brand consistency and new product development.
- Effectively increased lab productivity through the development and implementation of a training program.
Polymer Research Assistant
University of Florida
01.2008 - 01.2014
- Spearheaded investigation of synthesis of new biomass-based biodegradable polymers to replace commercial petroleum-based plastics
- Oversaw installation of a thermogravimetric analyzer/differential scanning calorimeter and a gel permeation chromatography instrument
- Sustained accuracy of instruments while running samples for research assistants and regularly trained secondary operators
- Adapted to air-free chemical work including glove box and Schlenk line utilization
- Maintained personal bench top, equipment, and fume hood in a shared laboratory
- Strictly adhered to waste disposal protocols as outlined by Environmental Health and Safety
Chemistry Teacher
University of Florida
01.2007 - 01.2014
- Lectured general chemistry, organic chemistry, and polymer chemistry for 30-300 students.
- Instructed students in organic chemistry lab by teaching safety protocols for proper use of chemicals and safe disposal of hazardous materials.
- Managed organic teaching laboratory and stockroom by pricing and ordering chemical supplies and equipment.
Education
M.S. - Chemistry
University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida01.2014
Bachelor of Science - Organic Chemistry
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL05.2007
Skills
- Intellectual property management
- Collaborate cross-functionally
- Operations Management
- Technical leadership
- Prototyping
- Design thinking
- Innovation management
- Product Development
References
- Dr. Alexander Pemba, research colleague, (352) 226-2184
- Dr. Stephen Miller, research advisor, (352) 392-7773
- Luke Kemper, brewery owner/employer, (352) 258-2293
Timeline
Quality Assurance and R&D Manager
SweetWater Brewing Company
10.2017 - 11.2024
QA/QC Manager
Three Taverns Brewery
02.2016 - 09.2017
QA/QC Manager
Swamp Head Brewery
01.2014 - 01.2016
Polymer Research Assistant
University of Florida
01.2008 - 01.2014
Chemistry Teacher
University of Florida
01.2007 - 01.2014
M.S. - Chemistry
University of Florida
Bachelor of Science - Organic Chemistry
University of Florida
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