Stefan Ilic joins LifeSpice as Analytical Chemist
CHICAGO, IL, March 4, 2026
LifeSpice is thrilled to welcome Stefan Ilic as LifeSpice’s first Analytical Chemist. Stefan is joining our team to operate our new GC-MS (Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry) analysis system, playing a key role in elevating our seasoning development capabilities.
Stefan’s hiring and the investment in a GC-MS system begins an exciting new chapter at LifeSpice. Stefan will lead the operation of this state-of-the-art machine to elevate our precision in seasoning development and matching. By analyzing and translating complex aroma profiles into actionable data, the GC-MS will strengthen our R&D team’s ability to replicate, refine, and create innovative seasonings with greater speed and accuracy. Stefan will use the GC-MS to help identify key flavor drivers, optimize formulations for processing stability, and reduce development timelines – transforming sensory insights into faster and more accurate seasoning matches.
Originally from Serbia, Stefan moved to Chicago in 2017 to pursue his PhD at the University of Illinois Chicago, where he conducted fundamental research on renewable energy. Following his doctoral studies, Stefan continued his research as a Postdoctoral Researcher at Argonne National Laboratory, deepening his experience with renewable energy and the GC-MS system. His work focused on using mass spectrometry to explore ways to extend battery life.
Stefan was drawn to LifeSpice through his extensive background working with GC-MS instruments, along with the opportunity to apply his skills in a new industry. Although this is his first time working in the food industry, Stefan considers himself a foodie and is excited to see his projects come to life in the food industry. In his new role, he has enjoyed collaborating with our R&D team and learning how products move from our lab to consumer’s plates. In the future, he looks forward to playing a crucial role in streamlining our seasoning matching process and expand the capabilities of our mass spectrometry program.
Outside of work, Stefan enjoys playing tennis, walking along Chicago’s lakefront, and exploring the city’s diverse restaurant scene. Stefan is a lover of Asian cuisine; his favorite local spots include Ramen Wasabi and Cho Sun Ok.
Welcome to the team Stefan, we are thrilled to have you on board!
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LifeSpice Ingredients is an innovator, developer, and manufacturer of proprietary seasoning blends for the food industry. Founded in 2009, LifeSpice balances culinary arts and food when developing new products. This team approach allows LifeSpice to deliver functional products with rich, innovative flavor profiles from their facilities in the US, Brazil, and New Zealand. LifeSpice’s global vision caters to the ever-changing market and evolving consumer taste trends.
Contact:
Casey Claflin
Marketing Manager
LifeSpice Ingredients
D: 312-741-5271