Meet Our Team

Director of Research Development and Professor of Chemistry

habbott@kennesaw.edu

Dr. Heather Abbott is the Director of Research Development at 最色导航 (KSU), where she leads institution-wide efforts to build research capacity and enhance faculty success in securing extramural funding. Since 2022, she has overseen key research initiatives at KSU such as internal seed funding, interdisciplinary team and proposal support, faculty development programs, and limited submission competitions. With a publication record in surface chemistry and experience as senior personnel on multiple federally funded projects, Dr. Abbott brings a scientist鈥檚 insight to her work in research development. She is an active member of the National Organization of Research Development Professionals (NORDP), and her work reflects a deep commitment to advancing research excellence and collaboration across disciplines.

Research Development Specialist

shovet@kennesaw.edu

Sierra Hovet possesses more than nine years of experience as a scientific editor and writer. For eight years, she worked with Dr. Zion Tse, the director of the Medical Robotics Lab at the University of Georgia and later at the University of York. She supported the lab鈥檚 activities by writing and editing research articles, grant applications, internal funding bids, and fellowship applications. Several of the successful grant applications she wrote for Dr. Tse allowed him to become a Fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and gain an Academy of Medical Sciences Professorship. When Dr. Tse co-founded the International Symposium on Medical Robotics, Sierra created a successful venture fund support request, and the first annual symposium went on to be hosted by the Georgia Institute of Technology. In her current role as a Research Development Specialist for KSU, Sierra is committed to helping faculty identify grant opportunities and write competitive proposals. 

Administrative Assistant

kcolbeck@kennesaw.edu

Katrina Colbeck is a skilled administrative professional with extensive experience supporting departments and divisions through effective office management and communication. She excels in creating and proofreading professional documents, coordinating meetings and events, and managing records and correspondence with precision. Known for her organizational expertise, Katrina efficiently oversees office operations, including supply management and shipping logistics. Her proactive approach and commitment to excellence ensure smooth operations and exceptional support for faculty, staff, and guests.