Nydia Muñoz-Rodriguez

• Washington State University, Pullman, Washington
  Ph.D. in Biological and Agricultural Engineering, May 2017
  USDA National Needs Graduate Fellowship in Food Engineering
  Advisor: Dr. Shyam S. Sablani
  Proposed dissertation topic: Developing polymeric packaging for pasteurized food products
• University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez, Puerto Rico
  M.S. in Science and Food Technology, Dec 2012
  Thesis title: Formulation of a starch-based edible film, evaluation of its properties and subsequent addition of bacteriophages (phage 52)
• University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez, Puerto Rico
  B.S. in Industrial Microbiology, May 2007
  Food Microbiology concentration, Cum Laude Honor

Tree Fruit Commission Funded Project, Summer 2014

Description: Cherry cracking during refrigerated storage is a serious problem of this fruit. Cracked fruit loses its value for fresh market. Cracking occurs due to water absorption through the fruit skin. The objective of the project is to reduce cracking of cherries during postharvest storage. We are developing edible coatings and desiccant incorporated polymer packaging to minimize water condensation on the cherry surface. In addition, a jet impingement drying system is being tested on packaging line for removal of water from the cherry surface before packaging.

Food Engineering Club member, 2013–present; CANHRS representative, 2013-2014; Social and outreach committee head, 2014–present