Michael Sharp, Director of Research and Analytics at the Heartland Food Products Group – Navigating a career in food product development (#95)
Last Updated on September 13, 2024
About Michael Sharp
On today’s episode, we are talking about what a research and development director does, the different kinds of R&D roles and advice for product development research interviews.
Our guest today is Michael Sharp – Director of Research and Analytics at Heartland Food Products Group. The Heartland Food Products Groups is a global leader in making low-calorie sweeteners and liquid water enhancers, located in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA and are the makers of Splenda Sweeteners. Michael has over 13 years of experience in research and development leading new products from concept to commercialization. He graduated from Utah State University with a bachelor’s degree in Food Science and has a master’s degree from Ohio State University.
Sponsor:
-
- Canadian Food Innovation Network: CFIN’s Food Innovation Career Hub is a one-stop shop for food professionals, students, and employers. This community is home to anyone interested in a career in food tech or actively seeking talented employees for their food business. The Food Innovator Career Hub lets you search job openings, access original content, and connect with a growing community of food professionals and mentors.
Other things we mentioned in this episode:
Timestamps
(0:00) Introduction
(1:33) Michael’s introduction
(11:15) Why Michael decided to get a master’s degree
(12:50) Differences between product development and R&D
(16:45) Michael’s research process
(22:20) Where Michael learned about data analytics
(24:10) Basic tools of data analysis
(26:40) Difference between small and large labs
(29:20) Sponsor: CFIN
(30:10) Transitioning from work to school
(31:50) How to identify your skills
(33:45) Michael’s extra-curriculars during school
(37:00) Technologies that are interesting to Michael
(42:25) Advice for students looking to go into R&D
Leave a Review
Thank you everyone so much for listening. If you enjoyed this podcast then please do leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and let us know in your review who you want to see next on the podcast.
leave your comment