Research

OMICS Reseach Group

Given the current capacity in the Life Sciences section and the potential to expand expertise in the areas of "Omics" (genomics, including its "post-genomics" fields such as transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics), the Department of Life and Consumer Sciences has identified "Omics" as a research theme. In our quest to address social pressing issues using inter and intra disciplinary approaches, we envision creating a strong group of researchers focusing on genomics, transcpritomics, proteomics, metabolics and population genomics.
Although we currently do not have a strong bioinformatics and computational biology capacity, it is envisaged that within the "Omics" group, there exists a huge potential to build capacity in the latter scientific area. Within this theme, intrinsic questions relating to macromolecules that play a role in phytomedicine, plants, food safety, animal and human health will be addressed, with the hope of improving the livelihoods of our communities. Ultimately, we envisage developing capacity to a point where we are recognised by our scientific and local communities as a Centre of Excellence with a significant impact on animal/human health and life sciences.

Research group profile

Research group focus The focus of the Omics group will be to advance research in the development of improved diagnostics and therapeutics using molecular approaches. The group will focus on the development and application of tools using advanced second and third generation DNA sequencing technologies, and genotyping platforms for the rapid generation of high resolution genetic maps of important plant, animal and human pathogens. These can be used for the identification of variation in candidate genes in regions of genetic significance to traits of importance in agricultural, veterinary and human health. Extreme emphasise will be placed on research that is of a collaborative effort in nature, with a multidisciplinary approach to tackle all aspects of the research and management of important pathogens afflicting plants, animals and humans.

Research group goals

  • Post grad goal
Each senior member of the group is expected to at least recruit and train one M / D student per annum. These students will be linked to projects and supervisors prior to their enrolment in the M / D programs. Furthermore, senior group members are encouraged to take advantage of funding opportunities for post-doctoral support. Graduate throughput can be achieved by aligning graduate student training and supervision to key performance areas of members in the Omics group.
  • Staff development
Currently there is a drive from members of the Omics group to register NRF interns in the M & D programs. Additionally, a number of junior staff members within the Omics group are registered for their MSc or PhD’s degrees.
  • Research goals, research output goals
It is expected that registered M & D students will be able to complete their studies within a reasonable time period. Students will be expected to submit manuscripts originating from their research work before they can graduate. It is expected that each study leader within the group will publish at least one manuscript per annum in an accredited journal. In addition, published result should be presented at local and international conferences where students can have opportunities to show case their work.
  • Funding
Members of the Omics group are required to apply individually or jointly for their own funding through the relevant funding agencies. Although a few senior members in the group already have funding for their research areas, it is imperative that joint research proposals are written in order to attract larger amounts of funding.  

Contact Us

Should you require any further information please contact Dr Samantha Gildenhuys gildes@unisa.ac.za

 

 

Last modified: 2023/08/07