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Biography
Encouraged by her parents to explore whatever sparked her interest, Kelly L. Knight became passionate for all things related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). She received a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from George Washington University in 2006, and two years later, a master’s degree in forensic science from Virginia Commonwealth University. For almost a decade, she worked in forensic DNA laboratories in Virginia and with the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division, where she qualified as an expert in criminal proceedings. Her research expertise is in forensic serology and LCN (low copy number) DNA analysis methods.
Turning to a career in higher education, Knight became a professor of forensic science at George Mason University, where she is also completing a doctorate in science education with a research focus on inclusive STEM pedagogies. In addition to guiding undergraduate students in the forensic science program, she co-founded and directs Females of Color and those Underrepresented in STEM (FOCUS), an outreach program intended to inspire middle- and high-school girls from Black, Indigenous and other communities of color to pursue careers in scientific fields. She has worked on numerous campus-wide initiatives related to diversity, equity, and social justice, such as the school's Anti-Racism and Inclusive Excellence Taskforce. Determined to transform expectations of who can be a scientist, Knight has built a strong social media presence to share her love of science. An American Academy of Forensic Sciences Fellow, Knight received George Mason's Teaching Excellence Award in 2020 and the Presidential Faculty Excellence Award for Diversity and Inclusion in 2024.2025 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy.
Watch Kelly L. Knight's recorded remarks shown at the Dominion Energy reception honoring the 2025 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honorees on February 6, 2025.