Her Story
About Kelli
Since I was a kid, one of my greatest academic strengths has been in the sciences and math fields, so STEM fields. I wanted to know what was going on - if a doctor was telling me something, I wanted to understand it immediately for myself, as well as be able to communicate it to those who may not grasp the information as quickly. It's nice to be able to contribute to scientific advances behind the scenes. That's how I got into doing assay development and maintaining my interest in science. I've been in biotechnology and development science since 2010, and I am a specialist in ligand-binding assay development for biomarkers, and also for PK and ADA assays. I have a specialty in bead-based assays, as well as other plate-based assays, and I'm involved in the drug development efforts to make the assays and test enough samples to release drugs. I recently relocated to the Bay Area for my position with Terrezin. In the next 5 years, I would like to go into management or direction, or actually exit the sciences altogether - I'm still evaluating the next phase of my career. Throughout my career, I've done mentoring opportunities as a tutor, as a substitute teacher, and as the department trainer within some previous positions that I held. Now I like to communicate my job duties and roles to peers within the workplace, and also those who ask about my position.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kelli
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the mentors I had earlier in my career, and also in my youth. I had a very influential postdoc at the time, a brilliant scientist, and she served as a mentor who provided guidance and also stability, because my youth also had some extracurricular experiences that not many people experienced, so she helped me stay on track. And also, just tooting my own horn myself, because as I mentioned, I did have some things earlier in my youth that were extracurriculars, and I was able to succeed in spite of that and also advocate for myself. As an example, one of the earlier positions I had in my career, I asked if I could make a certain amount, and it was a very easy yes. But had I not asked, then, you know, closed mouth doesn't get fed. Just being very mindful and communicative, and also detail-oriented, as well as receptive. I definitely want to give a nod to that specific mentor, a number of teachers that I had, as well as myself for my resilience.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Focus on what you know and what you would like to achieve, instead of, you know, as I know in my experience as a female, there can be feministic attitudes, and thinking that a specific female is not competent. But I would give advice to females, and anyone who is in a position where they know they have the expertise, and they have the experience, and they have the confidence to focus on that instead of any exteriors. Don't listen to others who have limited beliefs on how you can grow and your expertise. You have to continue to build your confidence and advocate for yourself.
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