Meet Ellie's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Erica Behling-Kelly

Erica Behling-Kelly (DVM, PhD, DACVP-Clinical) joined Ellie Diagnostics in October 2023. She brings a wealth of expertise and drives scientific and medical excellence with our diagnostics team.

Dr. Behling-Kelly's career trajectory is marked by a series of significant achievements and contributions to the field of veterinary science. Before her current role at Ellie, she was a tenured member of Cornell’s faculty, serving as the Director of the Clinical Pathology Laboratory. In this capacity, she not only oversaw the laboratory's operations but also mentored countless students and young professionals, guiding them through the complexities of clinical pathology.

Her research program at Cornell was particularly notable for its focus on the intersections of lipid metabolism and inflammatory diseases. This innovative research has provided new insights into how lipid metabolism affects various inflammatory conditions, paving the way for potential new treatments and interventions. Her dedication to advancing veterinary science is further demonstrated by her active participation in several professional organizations. She serves as a section editor for Veterinary Clinical Pathology, ensuring that the journal maintains its high standards of scientific rigor. Additionally, she is a member of the group responsible for drafting the ACVP certification exam, playing a crucial role in shaping the future of veterinary pathology.

“At Ellie, we are bringing the scientific rigor and quality of academia to a reference laboratory. I am honored to be part of this dynamic organization, addressing the obstacles and challenges in veterinary laboratory diagnostics head-on, and trying to make a difference in the lives of practicing veterinarians across the country,” Dr. Behling-Kelly states, encapsulating her commitment to improving veterinary diagnostics and supporting veterinarians nationwide.

Early Life and Education

Dr. Behling-Kelly's journey is a testament to the seamless blend of scientific inquiry and artistic appreciation, making her an invaluable asset to Ellie and the veterinary community at large. She was born and raised in the northern Chicago suburbs but is a die-hard Green Bay Packers fan. A loyalty that surprises many, given her Chicago roots! Her father, a medicinal organic chemist, played a significant role in shaping her scientific mindset. From a young age, he taught her to love science and to question everything, fostering a curiosity that would drive her future academic pursuits. Her mother, an artist and elementary school teacher, contributed a different but equally important perspective, teaching her to find beauty in everything around her. This unique combination of influences—scientific inquiry from her father and artistic appreciation from her mother—laid a strong foundation for her career as a clinical pathologist, a field that requires both analytical precision and a keen eye for detail.

Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, where she developed a solid grounding in biological sciences. She then pursued a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from the University of Georgia in Athens, where she honed her skills in veterinary medicine. Dr. Behling-Kelly’s quest for knowledge didn’t stop there; she went on to earn a PhD in Comparative Biomedical Sciences from the University of Wisconsin in Madison. Her research during her PhD program further deepened her understanding of complex biomedical issues. After completing a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, she returned to the University of Wisconsin to complete her residency in clinical pathology, solidifying her expertise in the field.

Personal Life

Dr. Behling-Kelly's personal life is as rich and fulfilling as her professional one. She is married to her high school sweetheart, Christopher Kelly, a relationship that has stood the test of time and various life changes. Together, they have built a loving family, including two sons: Logan, 21, and Finn, 16. Logan is about to start his fourth year in the biomedical engineering program at the Rochester Institute of Technology, a field that reflects his mother's influence and passion for science. Finn is about to begin his senior year at Ithaca High School, where he is exploring his own interests and preparing for his future.

The family is completed by their three beloved dogs: two English cream golden retrievers and a beagle, who bring joy and companionship to their home. Dr. Behling-Kelly often reflects on how her family and pets provide a perfect balance to her demanding professional life, offering unconditional love and support.

Dr. Behling-Kelly's story is one of dedication, passion, and the pursuit of excellence. Ellie Diagnostics shares the same values which is why we're glad she's joined Ellie and has played a pivotal role in shaping our superior diagnostic standards!