Diana Cheng, Ph.D.
Research Director, R&D Taste Botanical Research
Professional Overview
Diana Cheng, Ph.D., is an accomplished research professional with extensive expertise in botanical research and product development. As the Research Director at International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF), she leads a team of scientists focused on exploring the taste and sensory properties of botanical ingredients for use in a wide range of consumer products.
Experience Summary
Current Role
In her current role as Research Director, R&D Taste Botanical Research at IFF, Dr. Cheng is responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of innovative research strategies to understand the taste and sensory profiles of botanical compounds. She manages a team of scientists and collaborates cross-functionally to drive the company's botanical research initiatives, which have a significant impact on the development of new flavor and fragrance solutions for the global market.
Career Progression
Dr. Cheng has a strong track record of professional growth and achievement within the flavor and fragrance industry. Prior to her current role, she served as the Manager of the China Biotechnology Laboratory at IFF, where she led a team of researchers in developing novel biotechnology-based solutions for the company's product portfolio. Before that, she held the position of Research Investigator at IFF, where she contributed to the research and development of new flavors and fragrances.
Earlier in her career, Dr. Cheng gained valuable experience as a Senior Scientist at Nutrasorb LLC and as an NIH Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the National Institutes of Health/National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. She also held positions as a Graduate Research Assistant and Teaching Assistant at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she earned her Ph.D. in Food Science and Human Nutrition.
Academic Background
Dr. Cheng holds a Ph.D. in Food Science and Human Nutrition from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she specialized in the study of bioactive compounds and their impact on human health. She has published numerous peer-reviewed articles in scientific journals and has presented her research at various industry conferences, demonstrating her commitment to advancing the field of botanical research.
Areas of Expertise
- Botanical research and product development
- Taste and sensory analysis of natural ingredients
- Biotechnology-based solutions for the flavor and fragrance industry
- Cross-functional collaboration and team leadership
- Project management and strategic planning
Professional Impact
Through her leadership and innovative research, Dr. Cheng has made significant contributions to the development of novel botanical-based solutions for the flavor and fragrance industry. Her work has resulted in the successful launch of several new products that have been well-received by customers and have positively impacted the company's market share.
Conclusion
With her extensive experience, strong technical expertise, and proven track record of success, Dr. Diana Cheng is a valuable asset to International Flavors & Fragrances. As the Research Director in the R&D Taste Botanical Research division, she continues to drive the company's botanical research initiatives, positioning IFF as a leader in the development of innovative, natural-based flavor and fragrance solutions.
