Associate ProfessorSarah Kessans

Associate Professor Sarah Kessans is a synthetic biologist, industrial biotechnologist, and microgravity researcher whose work spans biotechnology, agricultural greenhouse‑gas mitigation, climate action, and space sciences. She applies synthetic biology, structural biology, and bioprocess engineering to develop sustainable bioproducts, novel therapeutics, and low‑emissions agricultural technologies. Her programmes on methane‑inhibitor delivery systems for pasture‑fed ruminants advance solutions that support Aotearoa New Zealand’s climate‑resilience and emissions‑reduction goals.

 

Her space‑focused research integrates microgravity science, space biotechnology, biomanufacturing, and aerospace engineering, designing biological systems and microgravity research platforms that enable long‑duration spaceflight, off‑Earth habitation, and space‑based bioproduction. This work positions the University of Canterbury as a contributor to global efforts in space biology, bioastronautics, and microgravity biotechnology.

 

She is a strong advocate for science communication, equity in STEM, and responsible innovation, collaborating with communities, industry partners, and international research networks to ensure that biotechnology advances are accessible, trusted, and impactful.