NICOLE BURKE, TECHNOLOGY scout at kalsec

After obtaining a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry at Purdue University, Nicole accepted a position at Kellogg’s. There her work focused on developing innovative strategies for sugar reduction in core brands and evaluating the phytochemical profiles and potential health benefits of functional ingredients in emerging brands. In 2019, she transitioned to Kalsec to develop a Technology Scouting program. Her role focuses on obtaining a competitive advantage for the company and enabling long-term innovation by identifying opportunities and threats arising from technological developments, market trends, and open innovation partnerships.

“When your innovation strategy is structured around protecting people and planet in addition to profits, it’s absolutely critical to actively search out and discover the new technologies that will enable sustainable growth.”