Dr Franz-Odendaal is a research scientist and Professor of Biology at Mount Saint Vincent University. She has written over 240+ scientific research articles/abstracts/reports and has given numerous invited talks at national and international meetings. She is highly regarded for her work in evolutionary developmental biology of the skeleton and has extensive experience in equity and inclusion best practices. Dr. Franz-Odendaal held the prestigious NSERC Chair for Women in Science and Engineering position (Atlantic Canada) for 12 years and has served in numerous other leadership roles including as President of the Nova Scotian Institute of Science (NSIS). Dr. Franz-Odendaal was the current President of the Canadian Society of Zoologists in 2024-2025. She is also one of the co-founders of the Canadian Black Scientists Network, where she served as Lead Ally (2020-2025). Dr Franz-Odendaal received the Mount’s Research Excellence Award for her outstanding contributions to the research community and research climate at the Mount (2015) and the Professional of Distinction recognition in Nova Scotia (2023). She is also recognized as a Fellow of the American Association of Anatomy (2020) and is a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (2024).