Cereal Chemistry Laboratory (CCL)

The Cereal Chemistry Laboratory (CCL) is a multifunctional lab in Kansas State University's Department of Grain Science and Industry. Our research focuses on the structure, chemistry, modification, and functionality of cereal and grain proteins and bioactive peptides with the aim of developing high-quality, functional grain-based foods, ingredients, and nutraceuticals. We employ and integrate wet chemistry, engineering principles, computational simulation, and applied machine learning to deepen the knowledge and advance the research on proteins and peptides. We work closely with other departments, universities, and industries to provide research, consulting, training and testing services related to cereal and grain science.

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Vision, Mission, and Goal Statement

• Vision: Be a key resource in cereal and grain chemistry research and education.
• Mission: Provide excellence in research and education in cereal chemistry.
• Goals: Develop nutritious and innovative cereal grain foods and food ingredients and provide relevant education and meaningful technical service.

Research Interests

• Grain protein chemistry & applications
• Bioactive compounds and peptides
• Baking science & chemistry
• Functional cereal foods
• Applied AI and machine learning

Opening

Highly self-motivated graduate and undergraduate students with grain science, food science, chemistry, or other closely related background are encouraged to email Dr. Li for opening inquiries.

Project Sponsors

• USDA/NIFA
• USDA/PCHI
• USDA/ARS
• USDA/AMS
• Kansas Wheat Commission
• Kansas Corn Commission
• Kansas Soybean Commission
• Kansas State University
• Grain Science and Industry
• Industry collaborators (e.g., Nestle, PepsiCo, Johnsonville, and many others)