Dr Kris Sonek is Senior Lecturer in Biblical Studies at Catholic Theological College, University of Divinity, where he also serves as Head of the Department of Biblical Studies.

He holds a doctorate from the University of Oxford and a canonical licentiate in Sacred Scripture awarded by the Pontifical Biblical Commission. His academic formation combines rigorous historical scholarship with deep engagement in the traditions of biblical interpretation.

Dr Sonek has taught extensively in Old Testament, Biblical Interpretation, and Hebrew at a range of leading international institutions, including the University of Oxford, Blackfriars Studium (Oxford), and the École biblique et archéologique française in Jerusalem, where he previously held the position of Associate Professor before relocating to Melbourne.

An active researcher, he regularly presents papers at national and international conferences and has a strong record of securing research funding. He is a member of several professional scholarly associations, including the Society for Old Testament Study (SOTS), the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL), the Fellowship for Biblical Studies (FBS), the Australian Catholic Biblical Association (ACBA), and the Catholic Biblical Association of America (CBA).

His current research focuses on the history of biblical interpretation, with particular attention to the reception of the book of Genesis in Jewish and Christian commentaries of late antiquity.

Dr Sonek is consistently recognised for excellence in teaching and student engagement. He is currently involved in the delivery of Exploring the Old Testament, Pentateuch, Hebrew Reading, and supervised reading units.

In addition to his academic responsibilities, Dr Sonek serves as chaplain at St Christopher’s German Catholic Centre in Camberwell.

University Appointments

Head of Department of Biblical Studies, Senior Lecturer in Biblical Studies (Catholic Theological College)

External Affiliations

• University of Divinity (Research Grants Panel member)