Kip came to NEIU after working in biocides research and development at Dow Chemical, and later as a research geneticist testing new drugs for toxicity in mammalian immune cell lines. At Arizona State University he enjoyed a National Science Foundation Fellowship where he was able to present his virology research to high school students to inspire a new generation of scientists. His master’s degree resulted in a publication as well as a patented method to facilitate genetic engineering in viruses. His interest in sharing his love for microbiology compelled him to seek employment in a university setting.