Biography and expertise
Biography
Professor Kirsten Benkendorff is a marine biologist and biomedical researcher with expertise from molecular to ecosystem scales. She has held key leadership roles at Southern Cross University, including Director of the National Marine Science Centre and Academic Director of the Analytical Research Laboratory.
Professor Benkendorff is a member of SCU's Research Clusters:
- Reefs and Oceans
- Catchments, Coasts and Communities
Professor Benkendorff's work contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals
Research
Professor Kirsten Benkendorff’s research focuses on the bio-resource potential of marine molluscs, including the effects of climate change and pollutants on seafood quality and immune health. She is also investigating molluscs for medical applications, with a promising anticancer and anti-inflammatory compound in preclinical trials. Her multidisciplinary approach combines immunology, microbiology, cancer biology, genetics, and chemistry. She has secured over $8 million in research funding and published more than 100 peer-reviewed papers.
Teaching
Professor Benkendorff teaches in the Bachelor of Science and Master of Marine Science & Management programs, including units on invertebrate biology and research projects. She has supervised over 70 postgraduate and Honours students to completion and currently supervises eight PhD candidates at Southern Cross University.