About

Cassie Byrd

I have a background in clinical laboratory science, beginning with my work as a molecular biologist for the United States Air Force (USAF). I was part of the Department of Defense Global Emerging Infections Surveillance network where I identified emerging respiratory pathogens and collaborated with the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization in determining the annual components of the seasonal influenza vaccine. As a result of a USAF directive to create a rapid biological response team, I created a novel training program for USAF laboratory technicians in the rapid identification of biological pathogens utilizing molecular biology techniques. The program grew to serve three branches of the US military.

I then earned a teaching credential in secondary life science and began a decade-long career at the Exploratorium in San Francisco. The Exploratorium is a global learning laboratory that empowers individuals to become active explorers – exploring the world through science, art, and human perception. As an informal science educator and director of multiple educational programs at the Exploratorium, I leveraged thought-provoking scientific inquiry to create meaningful learning experiences across the age-spectrum of learning audiences.

I am currently serving as the Chief Learning Officer at the Michigan Science Center. I believe that building collaborative networks and sharing knowledge is the key to having the greatest impact on public education and advancing equity in and through STEM careers – and that informal learning environments, such as Michigan Science Center, are poised to be the conveners and arbiters of equity-advancing knowledge in STEM.