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Kelly Clemens
UNSW Scientia Fellow at UNSW
Professional Background
Kelly Clemens is a distinguished researcher specializing in nicotine addiction and the neurobiological underpinnings of drugs of abuse. Her current research emphasizes the intricacies of nicotine addiction, showcasing her innovative use of intravenous (IV) self-administration techniques to study its development and persistence. Alongside her focus on nicotine, Kelly is expanding her research interests to incorporate the epigenetic regulation of gene expression related to drug use, with a particular emphasis on the role of non-coding RNA. This multifaceted approach uniquely positions her to contribute to the understanding of addiction and the behavioral and neurobiological changes associated with various substances such as MDMA, methamphetamine, mephedrone, cocaine, and alcohol.
In addition to her research endeavors, Kelly is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of scientists. She actively supervises graduate and undergraduate research students, encouraging their academic and professional growth within the field. Her commitment to education is further reflected in her involvement in various university committees and her role as an editor for a university-based online journal, where she contributes her knowledge and experience to enhance academic discourse.
Education and Achievements
Kelly Clemens has an extensive educational background that supports her successful career in neuroscience. She completed her PhD in Neuroscience at the prestigious University of Sydney, where she honed her skills and deepened her knowledge of addiction research. Prior to this, she earned a Master of Science (MSc) in Anatomy and Structural Biology from the University of Otago, further solidifying her foundation in biological sciences. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Zoology/Animal Biology from the same esteemed institution.
As a respected researcher in her field, Kelly has received numerous accolades for her contributions to neuroscience. She was awarded the Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA) twice, first while at UNSW and then at Macquarie University. This recognition highlights her innovative research and commitment to advancing knowledge in addiction science. Additionally, Kelly has served as a Research Fellow at Macquarie University and at the University Victor Segalen Bordeaux II, where she expanded her expertise and collaborative networks on an international scale.
Achievements
Kelly Clemens has made significant strides in the field of neuroscience and addiction research. Her pioneering work on the development of nicotine addiction through IV self-administration has paved the way for new understandings of how addiction manifests at both behavioral and molecular levels. The incorporation of epigenetic factors into her research reflects her forward-thinking mindset, potentially offering fresh insights into the treatment and prevention of addiction.
As an active supervisor, Kelly plays a vital role in shaping the careers of emerging scientists. Her mentorship extends beyond individual student projects; she fosters an inclusive and innovative research environment conducive to collaboration and discovery. As an editor of a university-based online journal, she amplifies her impact on the academic community by supporting the dissemination of quality research and facilitating scholarly communication.
In recognition of her expertise, Kelly has successfully engaged with various organizations and initiatives aimed at understanding the complexities of addiction. The roles she has held at esteemed institutions such as UNSW and Macquarie University underscore her valuable contributions to scientific research and education. Kelly's interdisciplinary approach, combining behavioral research with molecular techniques, exemplifies her commitment to innovative scientific inquiry.
Kelly Clemens continues to inspire students and colleagues alike with her dedication to research excellence and her thoughtful contributions to the field of neuroscience. As she navigates her research interests and supervises budding scientists, she remains an influential figure, fostering a deeper understanding of addiction and enhancing the landscape of neuroscience.
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