Online Lecture: Science in the Kitchen — An Introduction to Food Chemistry

Program No. 25070RJ

Join us on Monday, Aug. 25, 2025, at 1 p.m. (ET)/10 a.m. (PT), for a one-hour lecture and Q&A to learn about the molecular side of the food we eat everyday.

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1 hour

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At a Glance

Join Northwestern University Chemistry Professor Karl Scheidt for a fascinating look at the chemistry behind food and cooking. What happens when you toast bread, and what in the world is polysorbate 60? The creation and preparation of food involve numerous techniques and approaches, many of which are molecular in nature. This lecture will explore different cooking techniques from a scientific perspective and take a closer look at various food components, including what an emulsifier is and what makes a chili pepper so hot.

General Notes

Your online lecture will take place live over the course of 1-2 hours. All times are listed in the EASTERN time zone. If you live in a different time zone, please adjust your schedule accordingly. This live online experience uses Zoom Webinar, an easy-to-use web video service that includes closed captioning. All you need is an Internet connection and your computer. You will receive a confirmation email when you enroll, and a reminder email one week and one day before, as well as the morning of the event with a link and instructions on how to tune in. You will not be pictured on screen during the lecture, but you will have the opportunity to ask the instructor live questions using the Q&A box. Unless otherwise noted, all those who enroll in this program receive access to the live event as well as a recording of the lecture that you can watch any time within the two weeks following the live event.

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Karl Scheidt

Karl Scheidt is a professor of chemistry at Northwestern University. His research program focuses on the creation of new molecules in sustainable ways with translational potential in medicine for the treatment of diseases. He has trained over 100 postdoctoral fellows and graduate students, received numerous awards for both research and teaching, and is the cofounder of multiple biotech companies focused on translating the promise of natural products to clinical success. He resides in Evanston, Illinois with his wife and two teenage sons.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Karl Scheidt View biography

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