Dr Katen is passionate about teaching and creating engaging learning experiences for students. Current teaching areas at Charles Sturt include human anatomy and physiology and reproductive biology. Prior to joining Charles Sturt, Dr Katen gained valuable experience at the University of Newcastle, where she taught across a range of biology, molecular biology, and laboratory skills subjects. Drawing on her research background in molecular biology and reproductive toxicology, she integrates tangible scientific examples into her teaching to deepen student understanding. Her teaching approach is strongly student-centred, aiming to foster confidence, curiosity, and lifelong learning.

Dr Katen’s primary focus at Charles Sturt University is in learning and teaching, with a growing research interest in the scholarship of teaching anatomy and physiology. Her research background is in male reproductive toxicology, with a strong molecular biology focus developed during her PhD and postdoctoral work. Her doctoral research investigated DNA damage in male germ cells following chronic low-dose acrylamide exposure, explored the potential for protection using CYP2E1 inhibition, and examined the consequences for offspring. As a postdoctoral researcher, she expanded her expertise in male-mediated adverse progeny outcomes, assessing how chemotherapeutic drugs influence sperm chromatin integrity, telomere length, and early embryo development. She has also examined the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of organophosphate ester flame retardants on the male reproductive system. At present, Dr Katen is excited to integrate her research skills with her teaching practice, developing new projects in teaching innovation and student engagement.