Joining RCA
Q: Who joins the Research Chefs Association (RCA)?
A: 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, business professionals in sales or marketing, and media professionals.
Q: Why join the RCA? What are the benefits of membership?
A: There are many benefits of membership. These include subscriptions to RCA’s email alerts; access to members-only online features, such as the membership directory and RCA Connect; access to internship and job postings through the online Employment Network; invitations to regional networking events; discounts to the RCA Annual Conference and certification programs; and much, much more. View a complete list of benefits.
Q: How do I join, and how much are annual dues?
A: Join online today to begin your membership journey. Click here to begin the quick application process. There are membership categories for professionals, related providers, and students.
Q: What if I want to pay my dues by check?
A: Fill out the online application form (new members only) and, when prompted for payment, select to pay by check. Mail your check to RCA's payment address: PO Box 2144, Lexington, KY 40588-2144; please include a copy of your application or include the invoice number on your payment. Renewal dues must be paid by credit card.
Q: What is Culinology®?
A: RCA members are the pioneers of the discipline of Culinology — the blending of culinary arts and the science of food. Culinology, a registered trademark of RCA, is a fast-growing discipline that has evolved from the valuable partnership between the culinary professionals and scientists who develop today’s finest food products. Read more about the RCA and our mission and vision.
Current Members
Q: I have moved and/or changed contact information. How do I update my new information with RCA Headquarters?
A: RCA has an online feature called My Profile, which allows you to update your member profile online at your own convenience. Use the "Sign In" link to access the members-only area of the homepage.
Q: When do I need to renew my annual RCA membership?
A: Renewal notices are sent annually by email, based on your membership anniversary date, with the convenient opportunity to pay by credit card. Your membership anniversary date is one year after your join/renew month.
Q: How do I find other members?
A: You can use the RCA’s online membership community, RCA Connect, to search the RCA membership directory. Simply login to the RCA website, click directory and search using the form or insert “%” into any field to pull a full list.
Q: How can I informally share my knowledge with other members?
A: Participate in our online, connected community, RCA Connect. Post questions and concerns ranging from restaurant tips for foreign travel, to tips on equipment and ingredient sourcing, to technical issues about production. You can also share documents easily without clogging up your inbox. Join the conversation today!
Q: How and when do I renew my Certification?
A: 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 application.
General
Q: What discounts am I eligible for as a member of RCA?
A: You received discounted registration for the RCA Annual Conference and regional events, and well as CRC and CCS certification. RCA members also receive notification of special promotions, such as discounted rates to industry events when available.
Q: I am looking for a job and/or internship in the food product development industry. How can RCA help?
A: 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.
Q: I want to get more involved with RCA. How can I get started?
A: RCA has many member volunteers who help make things happen for the organization.If you are interested in getting involved at the committee or board level, review the RCA committee list and contact our headquarters.
Q: I want to get my company involved with RCA. What is available for us?
A: Companies can earn valuable exposure through RCA’s Partnership Program, which offers opportunities that meet your marketing needs at many price points levels. In addition, many opportunities exist with the RCA Annual Conference, regional events, other offerings.
Q: How can I tell a friend about RCA?
A: Send your friends or colleagues a link to our website, www.culinology.org.
Still have questions? Please contact RCA Headquarters at info@culinology.org