President's Welcome

Thank you for visiting www.culinology.org, which is the on-line home of the Research Chefs Association (RCA). The RCA is the premier source of culinary and technical information for the food industry, with a professionally diverse membership including chefs, food scientists, educators, sales associates, students and other industry professionals who are shaping the future of food research and development.

In the past thirteen years we have grown from a small American based association  to an international organization of over two thousand active members in the USA and other countries, including  Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Singapore and Malaysia to name a few. Professionals in research and development, manufacturing, packaging, foodservice, catering, and restaurants of all sizes are turning to RCA because we are passionate about innovation and quality in food product development. 

The RCA and our members are united by Culinology® —the fast growing discipline that blends culinary arts and food science/technology.  In fact, the mission of the RCA is to promote the value of Culinology® and empower its community.

In order to further our mission, we have established numerous programs that provide our diverse membership with excellent opportunities for professional and personal growth:

• Both continuing and higher education Culinology® programs at major U.S. colleges and universities ; 
• Scholarships for continuing and higher education  offered by the Research Chefs Foundation;
• Professional publications, including Culinology® magazine and Culinology® Currents newsletter ;
• Professional certification programs: Certified Research Chef (CRC) and Certified Research Scientist (CCS);
• Networking for our members through the RCA membership directory, the RCA list serve, RCA groups on LinkedIn and Facebook;
• Annual Conference & Culinology®  Expo as well as member receptions during other national shows including The National Restaurant Association and Institute of Food Technologists;
• Regional events for friendly, informal networking and educational seminars;
• Professional recognition through a national awards program, Culinology® competitions, and other RCA-sponsored events; and,
• The Employment Network for members, an online job posting service hosted at www.culinology.org

Whether you are a student planning your career, are new to the industry or are a seasoned R&D professional, there is always something inspiring happening at the RCA.  I invite you to explore what we have to offer, beginning right here on our web site. 

Sincerely,

Janet Carver
RCA President