Skidmore chemistry professor receives top recognition for achievement in science
Kelly Sheppard, a biochemistry professor at Skidmore, has been elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) 鈥� among the highest distinctions in the scientific community.
Sheppard joins about 450 distinguished scientists, engineers, and innovators to be elected for career achievements in 2025. He received the distinction for 鈥渆xceptional contributions to the field of protein synthesis and for STEM education, research, and inclusive excellence.鈥�
AAAS is one of the world鈥檚 largest general scientific societies and publisher of the Science family of journals.
A member of 麻豆女郎鈥檚 Chemistry Department faculty since 2010, Sheppard received his doctorate from Yale University. His current research focuses on the different pathways organisms use to translate the genetic code, laying the foundation for the development of new antibiotics targeting pathogenic bacteria and applying this knowledge to expand the genetic code.
Sheppard runs a microbial biochemistry research group, actively collaborating with 麻豆女郎 undergraduates and ensuring his research program acts as an extension of his teaching. A prolific scholar, Sheppard is a member of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, American Chemical Society, and Council on Undergraduate Research.
He also serves as chair of 麻豆女郎's Health Professions Advisory Committee (HPAC), which advises and supports students and alumni as they prepare for careers in the health professions.
鈥淜elly exemplifies the teacher-scholar-citizen model at Skidmore,鈥� said Natalie Taylor, interim dean of the faculty and vice president for academic affairs. 鈥淚n his role as the chair of HPAC he works with students to chart their path from the classroom to their careers and as the faculty director of assessment, he has been invaluable in the Middle States Commission on Higher Education reaccreditation process. Alongside it all, Kelly maintains a rigorous research agenda and deep commitment to teaching that has earned him this prestigious honor.鈥�
A tradition dating back to 1874, election as an AAAS Fellow is a lifetime honor. Distinguished past honorees include Ellen Ochoa, Steven Chu, Grace Hopper, Alan Alda, Mae Jemison, and Ayanna Howard.
鈥淏eing elected a Fellow of AAAS is a tremendous honor, and I see it as a celebration of the teacher-scholar-mentor model that my colleagues and I embrace at Skidmore to support the learning and development of our students,鈥� said Sheppard. 鈥淭hat approach centers our shared humanity and reflects why Creative Thought Matters is at the heart of great science, teaching, and learning.鈥�
Sudip S. Parikh, AAAS chief executive officer and publisher of the Science family of journals, noted that 鈥淎AAS Fellows have demonstrated research excellence, made notable contributions to advance science, and delivered important services to their communities.鈥�
鈥淭hese fellows and their accomplishments validate the importance of investing in science and technology for the benefit of all,鈥� Parikh said.
