Kristin Kopperud

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT KRISTIN KOPPERUD

I have always loved science. In fact, my mother tells me that I used to put rocks and bugs in my basket instead of Easter eggs! For my previous job as a Science Program Director for the International Space Station National Laboratory, I was able to translate this passion into helping other scientists send their research to the ISS. In this role, I worked with academic, government, and commercial partners to translate benchtop science into innovative experiments suited for microgravity research. Prior to becoming a Program Director at ISS National Lab, I was an Operations Project Manager at the same institution. Thus, I have a working knowledge of space hardware and facilities from supporting the development and implementation of spaceflight science payloads to the ISS. I also created resources for sharing information with new-to-space researchers and other potential Principal Investigators.I began my academic career at the University of Kentucky, where I earned BS degrees in Biology and Agricultural Biotechnology. I went on to complete a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology at Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, FL. During my graduate school tenure, I designed and instructed the laboratory sections for Biology, Mammalian Physiology, and Biochemistry. I continued teaching post-graduation at Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) in Cocoa, FL and Palm Bay, FL in lecture and lab sections of Biology I, Anatomy & Physiology I & II, and Fundamentals of Biology.The skillset that I possess makes me suited for a variety of positions, including project management or as a Program Director. I am also experienced in rodent research and am equally motivated to pursue a position in biotech. I am eager to continue advancing my career in the biological sciences.