Nicholas Kinney

Nicholas Kinney is an Assistant Professor of Biology at Sweet Briar College. He joined in 2024 after roles as Director of Bioinformatics at Orbit Genomics (Boulder, CO), Visiting Assistant Professor at Ferrum College, junior faculty at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Adjunct Teaching Professor at Bluefield College, and high school teaching at Saint James School (Maryland).
Office: Guion 203

• B.A. in Biology from University of Virginia
• Ph.D. in Philosophy, Genetics, Bioinformatics & Computational Biology from Virginia Tech

His research focuses on genetic variability across ethnic populations, particularly the role of microsatellites in gene expression and metabolic processes like glutathione metabolism. Combining computational biology with ethical considerations, his work addresses how genetic differences impact health outcomes across populations.

Notable publications analyze ethnically biased microsatellites' effects on gene expression and their prevalence in human genes. His 2024 Research Eureka Accelerator Program grant supported this line of inquiry.

Teaching experience spans undergraduate, medical, and secondary education levels. Current affiliations include Sweet Briar's Biology program where he contributes to curriculum development and student mentorship.