Carol Karahadian, PhD, is a distinguished expert in sensory and consumer science, with more than three decades dedicated to the field. Since 2017, she has found success as the owner and managing partner of C. Karahadian & Associates LLC, specializing in sensory training, sensory program development and quantitative consumer testing for both food and non-food categories. Her expertise includes analytical sensory techniques such as descriptive, discrimination, and affective testing, as well as consumer-driven product development for both established and startup companies. Dr. Karahadian works with organizations to train expert panelists in taste and smell, providing the tools and strategies needed to build and implement successful sensory programs. Additionally, she is committed to mentoring and teaching, bridging scientific expertise between academia and the private sector.
Before establishing her own company, Dr. Karahadian was the director of global sensory and consumer science at Starbucks Coffee Company from 2011 to 2017. In this role, she developed programs and identified areas for product development, further refining her expertise in sensory science. Prior to her role with the ubiquitous coffee company, she served as vice president of global sensory at Firmenich SA from 1995 to 2011, where she led the development of sensory programs worldwide across Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the United States. Dr. Karahadian’s tenure at Firmenich allowed her to empower industry professionals and cultivate their growth in the field.
Dr. Karahadian’s early career included academic roles as an assistant professor in the department of food and nutrition at both the University of Maryland and Purdue University. Prior to her university appointments, she taught high school math and science, a foundational experience that deepened her passion for education and mentorship. She laid a strong academic foundation, earning a master’s degree and a Doctor of Philosophy in food science and flavor chemistry from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, completing her doctorate in 1986.
Alongside her primary roles, Dr. Karahadian is actively involved in community service and professional organizations. Since 2019, she has served as a board member for Saint Francis Living Room, a food kitchen supporting low-income seniors and homeless individuals in San Francisco. She is also a member of the board of visitors at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Dr. Karahadian is involved with various industry organizations, including the American Chemical Society, a nonprofit scientific organization dedicated to advancing the field of chemistry; the Institute of Food Technologists, a nonprofit organization that connects food professionals and students to advance food science; and the Society of Sensory Professionals, a nonprofit organization focused on advancing the field of sensory science by providing a platform for professionals to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and educate one another.
Dr. Karahadian’s most notable achievement has been her steadfast dedication to mentoring and teaching. She takes great pride in inspiring and guiding others, fostering strong connections with students and colleagues throughout her career. In light of her impressive undertakings, Dr. Karahadian was inducted into the Hall of Fame by Purdue University’s department of foods and nutrition in 2017 and was named Woman of the Year by Women in Flavor and Fragrance Commerce Inc. in 2013. She credits her six years living in Geneva with enriching her cultural perspective and shaping her approach to community engagement. She also attributes her success to the unwavering support of her parents and the guidance of her doctoral professor.
Outside of her professional life, Dr. Karahadian enjoys hiking, walking, and traveling. Looking to the future, she plans to dedicate more time to volunteering and community service while maintaining her professional legacy as someone deeply invested in the success and well-being of others. In advising aspiring professionals, she emphasizes the importance of passion, persistence, and patience. Dr. Karahadian encourages others to love what they do, remain dedicated despite challenges, and continuously seek opportunities for learning and growth.