He received his Bachelor of Science from Australian National University. He obtained an Master of Arts from Princeton University. He completed his Doctor of Philosophy at Princeton University in 1989, under Jim Sauls, with a thesis entitled: Nonlinear interaction of zero sound with the order parameter collective modes in superfluid 3He-B.
He currently holds an Australian Professorial Fellowship from the Australian Research Council. He is notable for his work in quantum many-body theory of complex materials ranging from organic superconductors to biomolecules to rare-earth oxide catalysts. McKenzie is critical of claims that quantum effects are significant in understanding the function of biomolecules.
He is author of a blog, Condensed Concepts: Ruminations on emergent phenomena in condensed phases of matter.
McKenzie is a Christian. He is author of a blog Soli Deo Gloria: Thoughts on Theology, Science, and Culture.
He has written several papers about the relationship between science and theology.
