New Members

How can I join the Research Chefs Association?

You can become a member by completing our online application. Current membership dues are $360 for Culinologist members, $600 for Associate members, and $35 for Student members. Click the button below to review the options and descriptions, then choose the category that best fits your professional profile.

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Who joins the Research Chefs Association?

Anyone working in or interested in the product development segment of the food industry may join this professional association, which includes culinary and food science professionals, Culinology® professionals, educators, students, product/service providers, and sales and marketing professionals. 


What are the benefits of membership?

RCA membership offers connection to a valuable professional network and exclusive members‑only resources, including the membership directory, job and internship opportunities via the Employment Network, invitations to regional events, discounted registration for RCA conferences and the CRC and CCS certification programs, and additional benefits.

What is Culinology®?

Culinology®, a registered trademark of RCA, is a rapidly growing discipline that emerged from the collaboration between the culinary professionals and food scientists who create today’s leading food products. RCA members are pioneers in this field, which blends the culinary arts with the science of food. 


Renewing Members

How and when do I renew my membership?

Renewal notices are sent annually by email, with the convenient opportunity to pay by credit card. Your membership anniversary date is one year after your join/renew month. If your membership is ready for renewal, login as a member and click the Renew button in your profile dashboard. You will be guided through the payment process.

Renew Today

When is the membership renewal deadline? 

Memberships follow an anniversary cycle, so your membership will renew one year from your join or last renewal date. Check your profile for your specific expiration date to avoid a lapse in benefits. It's important to maintain an accurate email address to avoid missing a renewal notification.

How do I update my email and other contact information?

RCA has an online feature that allows you to update most elements of your member profile online at your own convenience. Login in as a member and navigate to your member profile to update your details. If you need assistance, contact RCA Headquarters.

How and when do I renew my RCA Certification?

RCA's Certified Research Chefs™ (CRC®) and Certified Culinary Scientists™ (CCS®) certifications must be renewed every five years to remain applicable. To learn more, visit our certification renewal page, which describes the required documentation requirements, timeline, fees, and applications.

General

I am looking for a job and/or internship in the food product development industry. How can RCA help?

Start with RCA’s Employment Network. Log on to access the up-to-date posting of job and internship openings. In addition, make use of the membership directory and networking events that RCA offers. Getting involved in RCA is the best way to make the contacts and build the relationships that will help you advance your career. 

I want to get more involved with RCA, how can I get started?

RCA has many member volunteers who help make things happen for the organization, and you can get involved at the committee, region, or Board of Directors level. Each year, the association issues a "call for volunteer interest" to allow members to review opportunities and share their interest areas. Visit our Volunteer Opportunities page for more information. 

How can my company engage with RCA to promote our products or services?

RCA offers multiple avenues for companies to reach Culinology professionals. Options include showcasing at the Annual Conference and Culinology Expo, participating in regional networking events, and securing corporate partnerships that provide exclusive promotional benefits. Contact RCA Headquarters for the latest prospectus or to build a custom package. 

How can I tell a friend about RCA?

Send your friends or colleagues a link to our website, www.culinology.org. 

 

Still have questions?

Our Headquarters team is here to help you get the most out of your RCA experience.