Science Museum Lecture Series: The Edge of Your Comfort Zone
Please join us for a special edition of our Science Museum Lecture Series on Wednesday, April 10 in Kinnison Hall at 7 p.m. with Kelly Kincaid presenting: The Edge of Your Comfort Zone: My Unconventional Path to Scientific Leadership.
Abstract: Embark on a journey through varied landscapes—from pit orchestras to archaeological digs, DNA laboratories, and entrepreneurial ventures—as we unravel the myth of linear career trajectories. Discover how embracing discomfort has propelled me through diverse professions and unexpected challenges, illustrating that new skills and ways of thinking can be acquired at any stage of life. I’ll share insights on the unique challenges of being a woman in leadership in male-dominated environments. Drawing from my experiences as a rock climber, I’ll also provide perspectives on risk-taking and resilience. Finally, I’ll discuss my current endeavor leading Astrea Forensics in the midst of a technological paradigm shift, using new scientific advancements to solving forensic cold cases. Join me in redefining success and embracing discomfort as a vehicle for personal and professional growth.
Bio: Kelly Harkins Kincaid is the co-founder of two Santa Cruz, CA-based biotechnology startup companies that develop DNA sequencing and analysis tools for applications in clinical research (Claret Bioscience) and for solving cold cases (Astrea Forensics). Dr. Harkins Kincaid has focused her career on the recovery and analysis of degraded or ancient DNA. Her academic research in bioarchaeology used paleogenomic methods and human remains to investigate the evolution of pathogens and emergence of human diseases over time. As an NSF postdoctoral fellow at University of California Santa Cruz, she refocused on DNA technology and assay development. This work led to the spinout of her first company in 2017.
Dr. Harkins Kincaid has a strong record of entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation, including publications and awarded patents, and external support, having held prestigious awards and fellowships from the National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, the National Science Foundation, the Fulbright Program, the Philanthropic Educational Organization and Skidmore College’s Palamountain Scholar Award. She holds a PhD in Anthropology (Bioarchaeology) from Arizona State University, and BAs in Music and Anthropology from Skidmore College.
Today she applies her experience to the emerging field of forensic investigative genetic genealogy, leading Astrea Forensics as founding CEO.
To find more lectures visit www.sheridan.edu/lectures
