Kristie Keeney

Kristie Keeney has a diverse work experience in the field of scientific research and communication. Kristie started their career as an HHMI Undergraduate Research Fellow at Reed College, where they investigated the interaction between Ler, a regulator protein, and the LEE5 operon in enteropathogenic Escherichia coli. Kristie later worked as a Research Assistant at Oregon Health Sciences University, focusing on characterizing a glucose transporter null mutant in the parasite Leishmania mexicana. Their research provided valuable insights into the metabolic pathways and transport mechanisms of the parasite.

Keeney then pursued their doctoral studies at the University of Michigan, specializing in Microbiology and Immunology. Their research focused on the intracellular growth and virulence of Listeria monocytogenes, where they investigated the pathogen's utilization of host lipoyl-peptides and lipoate-dependent metabolism to generate branched-chain fatty acids. Their findings shed light on the mechanisms of host-cell manipulation by Listeria monocytogenes.

After completing their Ph.D., Keeney worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow at The University of British Columbia, where they conducted research on gastrointestinal pathogens, antibiotic effects on gut microbiota, and the development of new therapeutics utilizing the human gut microbiome. During this time, they also directed successful research projects on bacterial communities in artisan cheese production and the role of stress survival islet 1 in Listeria monocytogenes biofilm formation. Additionally, Keeney mentored students, taught courses, and managed grants.

In 2018, Keeney established their own scientific communication business, Keeney Scientific, where they utilized their scientific background and writing skills to assist clients in effectively communicating scientific data. Kristie specialized in grant proposal writing and manuscript preparation for submission to peer-reviewed journals.

Their most recent experience is as a Scientist and Scientist II at Lumen Bioscience since 2020.

Kristie Keeney completed their education with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Reed College, where they attended from 1997 to 2001. Later, they pursued further studies and earned a PhD in Microbiology & Immunology from the University of Michigan between 2003 and 2008.