Houston-based Salata is building its research and development team to support its expansive growth and to meet customer demand for choice and nutrition.

Claire LeBoeuf will join the growing chain’s research and development team, supporting Salata director of product development David Laborde. Her primary responsibilities include new product development, nutritional research and analysis, and recipe development.

Prior to joining the Salata team, LeBoeuf, who studied nutrition at the University of Houston, was a manager at Roti Mediterranean Grill in Washington, D.C. Her commitment to health and nutrition came after a close friend died from a heart attack. Since then, she has focused on developing fresh, healthy offerings in the restaurant setting.

“We continue to innovate and find new, healthy choices for our valued guests,” Laborde says. “Claire’s passion for healthy food and new ideas are already being integrated in a variety of upcoming projects, and we look forward to all she has to offer the brand.”