Her research focuses on developing new reactions for the synthesis of medium-ring heterocycles and carbocycles. These structures are found in biologically active compounds that are potential pharmaceuticals. Student researchers in Dr. Bendorf's lab have had their work published in Tetrahedron Letters, an internationally recognized journal of organic chemistry, and have presented their work at conferences. Research in Dr. Bendorf's lab has been supported by grants from the Petroleum Research Fund, the Merck Foundation and the Council on Undergraduate Research.