John KavanaghView profile
Associate Professor
John Kavanagh is an Associate Professor and Associate Head (Education) at the University of Sydney's School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. He holds a PhD (Chemical Engineering) from the University of Sydney (2003) and has expertise in bioprocess engineering, environmental remediation, and education innovation. His research focuses on microbial production of food-derived vitamins (e.g., A and K), large-scale bioreactor modeling, and PFAS degradation via plasma bubble columns. He leads projects on algae-based omega-3 production and advanced water treatment technologies. John has been recognized for his teaching excellence, winning the Sydney University Supervisor of the Year award in 2016 and 2019. His international collaborations include partnerships with Technical University of Denmark and Brunel University on bioreactor modeling and fermentation studies. John has contributed significantly to engineering education through immersive virtual reality tools and industry-linked curricula. His research group develops scalable bioprocess models, including CFD simulations for bubble column reactors. He is a member of the Net Zero Institute, advancing sustainable engineering solutions. Current students include JARA OCHOA (biocatalyst development), Susanna KURIAN (PFAS remediation), and Timothy SCHOFIELD (probiotic delivery systems). John's awards include the University Medal (1999) and multiple teaching accolades. His work bridges academic research with industrial applications, emphasizing sustainability and process optimization. He actively publishes in top journals like Chemical Engineering Science and Biotechnology Advances , focusing on bioreactor design, membrane technology, and environmental engineering challenges.








