Academic Background
Dr. Marcos Herkenhoff has a robust academic foundation in veterinary medicine and genetics. He earned his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Santa Catarina State University (UDESC) in 2010, followed by a Master’s degree in Animal Science with a focus on animal production from the same institution in 2013. Dr. Herkenhoff further pursued his academic interests with a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences (Genetics) at São Paulo State University (UNESP-Botucatu), where he conducted significant research on the molecular characterization of heterotic hybrids in Nile tilapia. His postdoctoral research at the University of São Paulo (USP) centered on evaluating Catharina sour beer as a potentially probiotic drink, integrating multiomics techniques. Additionally, he has gained international experience through guest research roles at Technische Hochschule Wildau (TH Wildau) in Germany, where he specialized in proteome analysis of Nile tilapia hybrids. This extensive educational background equips him with a deep understanding of genetics, molecular diagnostics, and applied biotechnology.
Education
Dr. Marcos Herkenhoff completed his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine at Santa Catarina State University (UDESC), where he laid the foundation for his career in veterinary science. He pursued further specialization with a Master’s degree in Animal Science (Animal Production) from the same institution, focusing on genetic variability in Brazilian free-range chickens. Dr. Herkenhoff continued his academic journey at São Paulo State University (UNESP-Botucatu), where he earned a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences with a thesis on molecular characterization of Nile tilapia hybrids. His postdoctoral studies at the University of São Paulo (USP) involved advanced research in food technology, particularly in developing a probiotic beer using multi-omics approaches. His academic background is complemented by international experience, including research at Technische Hochschule Wildau in Germany, enhancing his expertise in molecular diagnostics and genetic research.
Professional Experience
Dr. Herkenhoff has extensive experience in both academic and applied research settings. He was a founding partner and responsible veterinarian at Equus Group, specializing in equine genetics and athletic performance. His work also includes a postdoctoral fellowship in microbiology and molecular biology, exploring multi-omics techniques for brewing technology. He has served as an assistant professor at Universidade Sociedade Educacional de Santa Catarina (UNISOCIESC) and a guest researcher at Technische Hochschule Wildau, Germany.
Research Interests
Dr. Herkenhoff’s research spans multiple domains, including molecular diagnostics for humans and animals, population genetics of birds and fish, immunogenetics, miRNAs and gene regulation in aquatic species, and nutrigenomics. His innovative work in developing a non-alcoholic probiotic beer through combined omics approaches underscores his commitment to advancing both animal and human health through science.