She graduated from Wageningen University and Research in 2009 with a bachelor's degree in Soil, Water and Atmosphere and a master's degree in Hydrology and Water Quality, both with a specialization in Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality Management.
In 2015, Brenda obtained her PhD at the university in Wageningen. Her PhD research at IMARES (Yerseke) focused on the role of ecosystem engineers (Pacific oysters) on the eco-morphological development of intertidal areas. Through in-situ experiments and field observations, she has drawn up design rules for the effective use of oyster reefs as an erosion mitigating measure.
She then worked as a postdoctoral researcher at NIOZ (Yerseke). Her research focused on the eco-morphological functioning and management of intertidal flats.
Brenda then worked as a marine ecologist at Wageningen Marine Research (Yerseke) on applied research within the entire southwest delta. She investigated the ecological functioning of intertidal areas after mitigating measures such as management realignment (Perkpolder), tidal restoration (Rammegors), nourishments (Oesterdam, Roggenplaat and Galgenplaat), use of erosion mitigating measures (reefs in the Grevelingenmeer) and reduced hydrodynamics (Knuitershoek, Baalhoek and Bath).
Brenda has been affiliated with the Building with Nature research group at HZ as a lecturer-researcher since September 2023.