Kelly's background is actually in the field of proteomics where she obtained a PhD in biomarker research in inflammatory arthritides at the University of Ghent in 2007. At that time, she combined her scientific enthusiasm with the responsibility of quality manager for the accredited DNA fingerprinting laboratory. She started at the department for reproductive medicine in November 2009 where she combined quality management work with project and laboratory process management and research in fertility preservation. 

Currently, she is responsible for the operational management of the IVF laboratory of the Ghent University Hospital IVF lab, where she has the privilege to work with a very dynamic and enthusiastic laboratory team.

She is the past-coordinator of the special interest group SQART at ESHRE and Belgian representative for EDQM at the Council of Europe drafting the guide for quality and safety for tissues and cells.