Kellie is a Presidential Assistant Professor of Microbiology in the Perelman School of Medicine. Her research focuses on defining early life immunity and response to viral infection. She was born and raised in New Mexico, so rightfully loves green chile and dry heat. She graduated from New Mexico State University, earned her PhD at Harvard University and completed her postdoctoral training at Yale University. Kellie is passionate about fostering inclusive community in the sciences and in community outreach. Outside of science, Kellie enjoys solving puzzles with her toddler daughter. “Me-time”, for Kellie, involves reading historical fiction, watering her plants, and crafting.