In May, our team celebrated a milestone that reflects everything Thrive Feeding Clinic stands for: evidence‑based practice, clinical depth, and genuine care for families. On that day, Dr Stefani Knijnik officially graduated with her PhD from the University of Sydney — a culmination of years of research, clinical practice, learning, challenge and growth.
Stef’s work has always been grounded in the belief that early feeding experiences matter deeply. Her research strengthens the clinical foundations we use every day at Thrive, shaping how we support infants, children, adults and older adults with feeding and swallowing needs.
Below, we’ve included Stef’s original announcement and graduation video, exactly as she shared it.
Why Stef’s Research Matters
Feeding and swallowing are complex, multi‑system behaviours. They involve:
Stef’s thesis — “Feeding Disorders in Infants: Clinical Presentation, Assessment and Intervention” — sits at the intersection of these domains. Her work contributes to:
This is research that directly impacts families — not just in specialist clinics like Thrive, but across hospitals, community services and allied health teams.
A Clinician Who Leads With Warmth and Expertise
Stef’s academic achievement is extraordinary, but it’s her clinical presence that families and colleagues speak about most.
Her work is rigorous, but her approach is gentle. She brings clarity, calm and confidence to families navigating feeding challenges — and her research amplifies that impact.
Strengthening Thrive’s Clinical Governance
Thrive Feeding Clinic is built on:
Stef’s PhD reinforces these pillars, informing:
Her work ensures Thrive continues to deliver specialist feeding care that is safe, current and clinically robust.
A Milestone Worth Celebrating
Completing a PhD is an achievement that reflects resilience, curiosity, discipline and passion. For Stef, it also reflects her commitment to improving feeding outcomes for people across the lifespan.
Her work will continue to shape:
We are honoured to celebrate this milestone with her.
If you or someone you support is experiencing feeding or swallowing challenges, Thrive Feeding Clinic is here to help. Our team provides safe, evidence‑based, specialist care across the lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Her research explores evidence‑based feeding and swallowing practice across the lifespan, with a particular focus on infant feeding disorders.
Her work informs our assessment frameworks, dysphagia safety protocols and feeding strategies for infants, children, adults and older adults.
Yes. Her research strengthens documentation, communication and feeding pathways for NDIS participants across all ages.
