Celebrating Women in Science at Kemin

Introduction

On February 11th, we join the global celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. At Kemin Human Nutrition and Health, we are proud to shine a light on the incredible women in science who are driven by their passion for discovery, innovation, and impact.

While we are featuring a few of these talented individuals here, it’s important to note that Kemin is home to many more inspiring women in science. They play vital roles in advancing our mission and embodying our tagline, “Compelled by Curiosity,” every day.

Below, we share insights from several women at Kemin. Their experiences and advice offer inspiration to those who may one day follow in their footsteps.

What do you enjoy about working in science at Kemin?

Bárbara Mião – Regulatory Affairs
"I really enjoy the constant opportunity to learn and grow in my field. At Kemin, science is always evolving, and the possibility of discovering new insights or improving existing knowledge is what keeps me motivated. It’s an exciting environment where each day brings new challenges and opportunities to apply scientific principles in practical, impactful ways."

Abby Kornstad – Research Associate II
"What I enjoy most about working in science at Kemin is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in global health. It’s also inspiring to work alongside such passionate people who share my curiosity and drive for scientific discovery, which makes every day here feel exciting and rewarding."

Justina Kim – Technical Services Associate
"I truly appreciate how Kemin fosters a culture of curiosity, as I believe that nurturing this curiosity is essential for driving scientific growth and innovation."

Brianne Steffen – CLS Specialist
"Kemin’s core values ensure that our science is sound. Our scientists are passionate and curious but understand the importance of scientific integrity and offering high-quality, data-supported ingredients to our customers. I am fortunate that my role allows me to do hands-on science work in the lab, but also interact directly with customers and provide the excellent customer service for which Kemin is highly regarded."

Kristin Roach – Senior Research Associate II
"Kemin’s scientists are dedicated servant leaders, fostering a community where teaching and learning are second nature. I’m grateful to be part of this dynamic team, creating innovative products with robust science to back them."

Holly Showalter – Technical Services Manager
"The reason I like working at Kemin Health is because I feel like part of a team that gets to use science in a commercial way to help achieve customer goals. Kemin is a very science-driven company, and we use it to substantiate claims on our products as well as develop innovative health ingredients for customers in worldwide markets. Another reason I like to work at Kemin is that no two days are the same. Being on a diverse scientific team allows us all to be constantly learning from each other, and that is also a positive attribute to my position."

How did you get interested in science?

Bárbara Mião – Regulatory Affairs
"I’ve always had a passion for the exact sciences, especially in understanding the world around us. Food, in particular, intrigued me—its complexities, its role in health, and how we can make it better. Engineering, and more specifically, Food Engineering, felt like the perfect way to blend my interests. It’s a field that's dynamic, full of opportunities to innovate and solve real-world problems. My master’s degree deepened my appreciation for this field, and it made me even more passionate about how science can transform the way we approach food and nutrition."

Abby Kornstad – Research Associate II
"I’ve always been curious and loved asking 'why.' Science provided me with the perfect medium to explore those questions, dive deeper, and find answers, which is what initially sparked my interest in the field, and I’ve been hooked ever since."

Justina Kim – Technical Services Associate
"Throughout my childhood, I was fortunate to have passionate science teachers who made learning feel both fun and exhilarating. As I advanced to college and graduate school, I had the privilege of being mentored by strong, female scientists whose leadership and dedication further deepened my love for science."

Brianne Steffen – CLS Specialist
"When I was in elementary school, I had an aptitude for math and science, and I think that I was identified as a candidate for early (like early 90’s) 'Girls in STEM' initiatives. I was sort of guided into upper-level math and science classes. I think I became most personally interested in high school Anatomy & Physiology class. I enjoyed learning about how the human body works.”

Kristin Roach – Senior Research Associate II
"My parents, both teachers, encouraged learning every day. This foundation paired with my love for the outdoors and curiosity about life led me to study biochemistry to understand the science behind nature’s complex beauty. I love the challenge of solving difficult problems and knowing that my work could make a real impact on the future and on people's lives. The opportunity to collaborate with talented, creative people every day keeps me inspired and excited about what we can accomplish next."

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in science?

Bárbara Mião – Regulatory Affairs
"Hmm, that’s a tough one! But I would say: never be afraid to explore and challenge yourself. Science is vast and exciting, and there’s always something new to discover. Stay curious, ask questions, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks—those are just opportunities to learn and grow. Also, don’t let anyone tell you that a certain field isn’t for you. If you’re passionate about it, go for it!"

Abby Kornstad – Research Associate II
"My advice to young women thinking about a career in science is to always keep asking questions and be curious. Stay open-minded, keep learning, and don't be afraid to think outside the box. Being curious and asking 'why' is key to science and it will open doors to endless opportunities."

Justina Kim – Technical Services Associate
"For young women considering a career in science, embrace your curiosity and never be afraid to ask questions—your unique perspective is valuable. Find supportive mentors, persevere through challenges, and trust in your abilities, knowing that innovation often comes from persistence and collaboration. Remember, pursuing your passion, balancing your personal life, and staying confident in your worth will help you thrive in a field that needs diverse voices."

Brianne Steffen – CLS Specialist
"Participate in internships, job shadowing, undergraduate research, etc. as often as you can so you get a good sense of what a career in science is like day-to-day. These experiences help you learn what you like to do (and don’t like to do). Plus, having a real-world framework for science makes the abstract concepts more meaningful and easier to understand. Don’t be discouraged if a career as a research scientist doesn’t feel like a good fit for you. There are many science-adjacent careers that are enriched by your interest in science: artists who create realistic illustrations or animations of scientific concepts, communicators who explain science in a way that makes sense to the average consumer, lawyers who protect intellectual property, etc. You don’t have to give up on loving science just because you don’t want to work in a lab!"

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