Karma James-Dulin, Ph.D.
Dr. Karma James-Dulin is a highly accomplished Food Scientist and Product Development Manager at Standard Process Inc., where she leads innovation initiatives within the Nutrition Innovation Center. With over a decade of experience in new and existing product development, Karma specializes in scaling products from bench top to industrial production, conducting stability studies, performing sensory evaluations, and integrating clean-label, cost-effective, and nutritionally optimized solutions. Her proactive approach and problem-solving mindset have enabled her to successfully manage multiple cross-functional projects while mentoring teams and organizing workshops that foster professional growth.
Karma earned her Ph.D. in Food Science from Penn State University, where she also served as a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant, leading research on dietary supplement safety and liver toxicity mechanisms, while teaching courses in food analysis and chemistry to undergraduate students. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Grambling State University and has completed advanced training in Genesis R&D and ServSafe certifications. Throughout her career, she has combined her scientific expertise with culinary creativity, achieving clean-label formulations and substantial cost savings for major consumer products.
Beyond her technical achievements, Karma is deeply committed to education and mentorship, actively participating as a judge for high school and undergraduate research competitions and contributing to professional organizations such as the Institute of Food Technologists and the American Society for Nutrition. Her work has been published in leading scientific journals, reflecting her dedication to advancing knowledge in food science, nutrition, and product innovation. Known for her leadership, passion, and ability to inspire others, Karma continues to drive innovation in the food industry while positively impacting colleagues and the wider scientific community.
• Genesis R&D Advanced Training
• Penn State University - PhD
• Donald Josephson and Stuart Patton Mentorship Award in Dairy and Food Science
• Feeding Tomorrow Kerry Graduate Scholarship
• College of Agricultural Sciences Graduate Student Competitive Grant Award
• Robert D. and Jeanne L. McCarthy Memorial Graduate Teaching Award and Graduate Scholarship
• 3rd Place winner Gamma Sigma Delta Graduate Poster Competition
• 1st Place winner The Graduate School: Graduate Research Exhibition
• Dudek Grad Scholarship in Food Science
• Institute of Food Technologists
• American Society for Nutrition
• Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science
• Penn State University
• MIT Summer Research Program
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to strong leadership and management skills, a willingness to embrace challenges, and a commitment to continuous learning. As a goal-oriented Food Specialist, I have extensive experience in both developing new products and enhancing existing ones, always striving to deliver quality and innovation.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to stand tall and proud, be a good listener, embrace new challenges, and always be a team player. Following this guidance has helped me grow both personally and professionally while building strong, collaborative relationships.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to be creative and think outside the box, actively network, and continuously pursue education and professional certifications. These steps will help you grow your skills, expand your opportunities, and make a meaningful impact in your career.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and at the same time, opportunities—in my field right now is increasing awareness of our services among other businesses. Expanding our exposure allows us to build stronger partnerships, reach new clients, and create greater impact in the industry.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are staying positive and motivated, taking pride in my work, teaching and mentoring others, and making a meaningful difference every day. As a goal-oriented Food Specialist with experience in developing both new and existing products, I strive to combine creativity and excellence in everything I do. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, cooking, and dancing, which keep me inspired and energized.