Harrison Helmick

Background

About Harrison Helmick

I work as a senior scientist at Roquette, focusing on protein chemistry and data science as it relates to R&D. I love thinking about protein structure function relationships and how we can use that knowledge to innovate in the protein ingredient space. I also work with automating data analysis for the R&D team including structuring, analytical pipelines, and presentation of final results. I graduated with a PhD in Food Science at Purdue University after manufacturing experience in the baking industry. My research aimed to generate linear and non-linear relationships between structural bioinformatics and food processing methods using a materials science framework. With this work, we helped to uncover new structure - function relationships of plant based protein. Previously, I worked in manufacturing as part of the baking industry. I focused on lean six sigma and process improvement, ultimately achieving my black belt certification. I continue to use those skills as I navigate the food science world. Proficient research techniques: Structural Bioinformatics: Generating, evaluating, characterizing, quantifying, and Python scripting for model analysis, Chimera, Python for bioinformatics Python for data science: data munging, application program interface (API) usage, text mining, machine learning, package familiarity (Pandas, NumPy, SciKit learn, Bio Python, natural language tool kit, SpaCy, PyTorch, TensorFlow) Physicochemical Analysis: Rheology, spectroscopic techniques (FTIR, UV-VIS), differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, tensiometer, SDS-PAGE, fluorescence spectroscopy