Rate Professor Marina Kennerson

Professional Summary: Professor Marina Kennerson

Professor Marina Kennerson is a distinguished academic and researcher at the University of Sydney, Australia, with a significant focus on neurogenetics and molecular biology. Her work has contributed to advancing the understanding of inherited neurological disorders, particularly in the field of peripheral neuropathies. Below is a detailed overview of her academic and professional journey based on publicly available information.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Kennerson holds advanced degrees in science and genetics, with her academic training rooted in molecular biology and neurogenetics. Specific details of her degrees and awarding institutions are as follows (based on public records):

• Bachelor of Science (BSc) – Major in Biology (Institution not specified in public records)
• PhD in Molecular Genetics or related field (Institution and exact year not fully detailed in accessible sources, but associated with early career work at the University of Sydney)

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Professor Kennerson’s research primarily focuses on the genetic basis of neurological disorders, with a specialization in Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) and other inherited peripheral neuropathies. Her work integrates molecular genetics, genomics, and bioinformatics to identify novel disease-causing genes and understand their mechanisms. Key areas of interest include:

• Neurogenetics and hereditary neuropathies
• Gene mapping and mutation analysis
• Functional genomics and disease modeling

Career History and Appointments

Professor Kennerson has built a robust career in academia and research, with significant roles at the University of Sydney and affiliated institutes. Her career trajectory includes:

• Associate Professor, University of Sydney, Sydney Medical School
• Senior Research Fellow, ANZAC Research Institute, Concord Hospital, Sydney
• Leadership roles in neurogenetics research groups at the University of Sydney and affiliated hospitals

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

While specific awards and honors are not exhaustively listed in public sources, Professor Kennerson has been recognized for her contributions to neurogenetics through funding and collaborative research grants. Notable recognitions include:

• Recipient of competitive research grants from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) of Australia for projects on peripheral neuropathies (specific years not publicly detailed)
• Acknowledgment in international neurogenetics communities for her contributions to CMT research

Key Publications

Professor Kennerson has authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed papers in high-impact journals, focusing on the genetics of neurological disorders. A selection of her key publications (based on public databases like PubMed and institutional profiles) includes:

• Kennerson, M.L., et al. 'A new locus for X-linked dominant Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMTX6) is caused by mutations in the pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase isoenzyme 3 (PDK3) gene.' Human Molecular Genetics, 2013.
• Kennerson, M.L., et al. 'Missense mutations in the copper transporter gene ATP7A cause X-linked distal hereditary motor neuropathy.' American Journal of Human Genetics, 2010.
• Kennerson, M.L., et al. 'Expanding the phenotype of MFN2-related neuropathy with optic atrophy.' Neurology, 2016.

These publications reflect her significant contributions to identifying genetic mutations associated with neuropathies and advancing diagnostic approaches.

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Kennerson’s research has had a notable impact on the field of neurogenetics, particularly in the understanding and diagnosis of inherited peripheral neuropathies like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Her work on gene discovery and mutation analysis has contributed to improved genetic testing and potential therapeutic targets. She is recognized internationally for her collaborative efforts with research networks studying rare neurological disorders, enhancing the global knowledge base in this area.

Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions

While specific details of public lectures or editorial roles are limited in public records, Professor Kennerson is known to be actively involved in academic and research communities. Her contributions include:

• Presentations at international conferences on neurogenetics and peripheral neuropathies (specific events not detailed in public sources)
• Membership in professional organizations related to genetics and neurology (exact roles not specified)
• Potential contributions to peer review processes for journals in her field (based on her expertise and publication record)