Jiana Matamoros

Food Science Ph.D. student with research experience in food lipids, emulsions, hydrocolloid-based systems, and chocolate formulation. Skilled in food formulation, physicochemical characterization, sensory evaluation, statistical data analysis, and laboratory research, with a strong interest in food product development and innovation.

Teaching Assistant at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (2026-08 – Present)

• Design and teach laboratory experiments for master's-level students in the Experimental Foods course.
• Develop laboratory instructions, procedures, and activities to reinforce food science concepts.
• Guide students through laboratory procedures, data collection, and scientific interpretation of experimental results.

Research Assistant at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (2024-07 – 2026-07)

• Research lipid modification, structured oils, emulsions, and hydrocolloid-based systems for food applications, including cocoa butter replacement in chocolate.
• Formulate and characterize chocolate and emulgel systems using physicochemical, thermal, rheological, textural, microscopic, and sensory analyses.
• Perform experimental data collection, statistical analysis, and interpretation to evaluate formulation stability and product quality.
• Conduct sensory evaluation studies and use Compusense software and sensory laboratory procedures.
• Assist with laboratory instrumentation, experimental preparation, data management, and sensory testing.
• Contribute to the development and instruction of coursework in the science of chocolate manufacturing and advanced sensory evaluation.

Inspector and Packer at Pratt Industries (2021-03 – 2022-01)

• Ensured compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and quality standards in packaging operations.
• Collaborated with machine operators and production supervisors to minimize downtime and improve production efficiency.
• Assisted with completion of production, safety, and quality documentation.

Quality Control Intern at Agroexport S.A. (San Jose Industrial Plant) (2020-10 – 2020-12)

• Performed pre-operational, operational, and post-operational verification in production areas.
• Verified cleaning and sanitation procedures for equipment and employee handwashing protocols.
• Inspected pest-control stations and supported compliance with GMPs and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Ph.D. in Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (Concentration: Food and Nutritional Sciences) – North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (2026-08)

M.S. in Food and Nutritional Sciences – North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (2024-08 – 2026-07)

Post-Baccalaureate Studies – Alamance Community College (2023-07 – 2023-12)

B.S. in Agro-Industrial Engineering – National Autonomous University of Nicaragua (UNAN FAREM Matagalpa) (2016-03 – 2021-02)