Karin Shank
About Karin Shank
Karin Shank is a Senior Research Analyst at the North Carolina Biotechnology Center, where she has worked since 2016. With a background in molecular biology and library science, she supports AgTech and Precision Medicine initiatives through complex scientific literature searches and database management.
Work at North Carolina Biotechnology Center
Karin Shank has served as a Senior Research Analyst at the North Carolina Biotechnology Center since 2016. In this role, she supports AgTech and Precision Medicine initiatives. Her responsibilities include conducting complex scientific literature searches to aid regulatory and innovation activities. Additionally, she engages with scientists to ideate and explore innovative solutions. Shank has been involved in several internal invention disclosures with a multinational company client during her tenure.
Previous Experience in Research and Libraries
Before her current position, Karin Shank worked at the North Carolina Biotechnology Center as a Research Librarian from 2005 to 2016. Her earlier experience includes serving as a Library Intern in the Reference Department at North Carolina State University and as a Library Intern at Rex Healthcare, both in 2004 to 2005. Additionally, she worked as an Associate Scientist I at BASF Plant Science LLC from 2000 to 2004, where she gained experience in molecular biology and analytical biochemistry.
Education and Expertise
Karin Shank holds a Master of Library Science (MLS) degree from North Carolina Central University, where she focused on Special Libraries. She also earned a Master of Science (MS) degree in Crop Science and Botany from North Carolina State University. Her undergraduate education includes a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Biology with a minor in English from Eastern Mennonite University. This diverse educational background supports her expertise in scientific research and library sciences.
Scientific and Technical Skills
Karin Shank possesses extensive experience as a molecular biologist and analytical biochemist, specializing in proteins and lipids. She has worked in both academic and corporate laboratory settings. In her current role, she acts as an administrator of several databases and is a power user of many others, showcasing her technical skills in managing and utilizing scientific information resources effectively.