July 2025 – Valeria Rodriguez joins the Park Laboratory as a graduate student researcher, taking the lead on the Enzyme-Derived Food Additive Project funded through the Utah Agricultural Experiment Station Hatch funds.

Valeria was born in El Salvador and lived in Panama for 15 years. She recently earned her bachelor’s degree in Food Engineering from the Technological University of Panama, where her thesis focused on upcycling fish byproducts into high-protein snacks made from croaker fish skin using techniques such as frying, air frying, baking, freeze-drying, and dehydrating.

She is passionate about food innovation, especially alternative proteins and the role of nutrition in preventing chronic diseases while contributing to resilient and sustainable food systems. Valeria holds an EIT Food certification in tackling food waste and has received training in food safety documentation and management systems.

She has lived in both Berlin and Vienna, where she began learning German and developed a strong interest in food cultures around the world. In her free time, she enjoys outdoor activities, traveling, reading, and playing ultimate frisbee, a sport she truly loves. Although she had to stop playing competitively due to an injury, she still enjoys throwing the disc and occasionally joining casual games. She is also currently learning to play the ukulele.

We’re excited to welcome Valeria to the team!

June 2025 – Elli Mellor joins the Park Laboratory as an undergraduate student researcher, taking the lead on the Byproduct Biofertilizer Project funded through the USU UASAL program.

Elli began her education by completing high school in just three years while simultaneously earning a Culinary Arts certificate from Mountainland Technical College. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Food Science, with minors in Chemistry and Operations and Supply Chain Management. Elli also holds certifications in Food Safety Management, HACCP, and Soil Sciences.

She brings a strong passion for the culinary and food science industries, with particular interest in the intersection of consumption, safety, and sustainability. Originally from Draper, Utah, Elli grew up in a family of six, including three older brothers. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, exploring the outdoors, learning new skills, meeting new people, and caring for her dog. Her future goal is to work as a Safety and Sanitation Specialist in the food industry.

We’re excited to welcome Elli to the team!