Clancy graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree cum laude from Harvard University in 2001, specialising in Biological Anthropology and Women's Studies.

Clancy's early published research demonstrated that, contrary to previous belief, menstruation does not increase risk for iron-deficiency anemia.

Clancy has also made a broader contribution to the study of human evolutionary biology and ecological stress on ovaries and endometrial function.

A follow-up study (known as "SAFE 2"), led by Nelson, Rutherford, Hinde and Clancy identified systemic patterns that lead to negative fieldwork experiences and harassment.

Where problems arise, these sites deal with issues swiftly and consistently, leading to higher levels of perceived safety and equality.

The SAFE13 study and subsequent research and activities (media interviews, conferences and advocacy) have made significant impact on increasing awareness of institutional responses to sexual harassment, as well as policy reform.

In 2017, Clancy led another study on sexual harassment in collaboration with Katharine M. N. Lee, Erica M. Rodgers and Christina Richey.

[16] The study finds that 88% of participants had heard negative language at work, along with other verbal and physical abuse that made them feel unsafe.

Women of colour are also more likely to skip educational and professional opportunities, such as meetings and conferences, in an attempt to minimise exposure to hostility and harassment.

[19] The study raises questions about bystander interventions, given the hostile culture towards women of colour is evident to witnesses, who do not feel empowered to act.