Science and Our Food Supply Careers: Dr. Charles Sizer, Ph.D.

"Good writing and communications skills are essential!"
 

Career Title:
Director, National Center for Food Safety and Technology
Summit-Argo, Illinois

Field of Expertise:
Food Processing

Academic Studies:
University of Nebraska
Kearney, Nebraska
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

Colorado State University
Fort Collins, Colorado
Master of Science and Ph.D. in Food Science/Nutrition

Employment History:
Paper Delivery Boy
(while in 4th grade)

Research Scientist
Frito Lay
Dallas, Texas

Professor of Food Science
Iowa State University
Ames, Iowa

"If I hadn't become a scientist, I would have become . . . a chemical engineer."

Q: What do you do in your current job?
A: I develop processes for assuring the safety of foods.
Q: What do you like most about your career?
A: I love working with people, and it's rewarding to know that my job allows me to provide the public with safe food.

Q: What other subjects besides science are important for this field of study?
A: English is so important. Scientists are constantly reporting what they do, so good writing and communications skills are essential!

Q: Have you been involved in any new scientific discoveries?
A: I've discovered 12 U.S. patents and more than 30 international patents. One of my college professors inspired the idea for one of my most popular patents. It's a design for a new type of reflector for a system that sterilizes shelf-stable milk cartons. It's exciting to walk down any supermarket aisle and see one of my patents.

Q: What advice would you give to students who are interested in pursuing a career in science?
A: I would say . . . follow your curiosity.

May 2001