Navigating a career in food product development with Michael Sharp, Director of Research and Analytics at the Heartland Food Products Group | Ep. 94

Michael Sharp is the director of research and analytics at the Heartland Food Products Group. The Heartland Food Products Group is a global leader in making low-calorie sweeteners and liquid water enhancers. It is located in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, and makes 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 a master's degree from Ohio State University. 🔍 Episode Highlights:  • What a Research and Development Director does • The different kinds of R&D roles • Michael's career journey • Advice for product development research interviews Show Notes Michael's  / LinkedIn 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   COOL THINGS TO CHECK OUT 📖 Explore FoodGrads Career Guides (Ebooks) 📜 Get Career Advice (Blog)   CONNECT 🐦 Connect on Twitter 📸 Connect on Instagram 💼 Connect on LinkedIn 🎵 Connect on TikTok 📹 Subscribe on YouTube   SPONSORS Canadian Food Innovation Network:  Check out CFIN's Career Hub to learn more about CFIN's free membership, their Food Innovator Career Hub, and how can you can join the fastest growing food business community in the country.    SAY THANKS 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify