Young Unisa science stars join elite Lindau Nobel Laureate group

Dr Bambesiwe May, who graduated at Unisa this week with a PhD in Chemistry obtained at the university’s College of Science, Engineering and Technology (CSET), will be joining a select group of eight young South African scientists to participate in the 73^rd Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting in Germany. Also participating will be Dr Mosima Kgomo, a recently appointed postdoctoral research fellow at CSET. Working under the mentorship of Distinguished Professor Mokhotjwa Dhlamini, Kgomo’s work work focuses on semiconductor metal oxide-based gas sensors for environmental air quality monitoring in the agricultural sector.

Young science star, Unisa alumna Dr Bambesiwe May (Image: Mintek)

Unisa postdoctoral research fellow, Dr Mosima Kgomo (Image: ASSAf)

The Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf), as the official partner of the Lindau Foundation and with funding from the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), nominates young scientists from South Africa annually to attend the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings. The meetings are a forum for young scientists from around the world to engage in-depth with Nobel Laureates on research and overall career management aspects.

While completing her thesis, May was a pre-doctoral research fellow at Mintek, South Africa's national mineral research organisation and one of the world's leading technology organisations. May is currently a Geochemist at Digby Wells, one of the largest environmental consulting firms in Africa focused on the resources sector.

Last year, May won the esteemed South African Women in Science Awards (SAWISA) under the Department of Science and Innovation DSI-Ndoni Mcunu Fellowships: Doctoral Awards category. The awards celebrate women who are contributing immensely to the science, technology and innovation (STI) sector.

May's doctoral research at Mintek centred on producing materials for monitoring pollutants and water remediation. She has published four peer-reviewed journal articles from her PhD work, co-authored three book chapters and co-authored three peer reviewed journal articles. Furthermore, the work has also been presented in various conference platforms.

Before departure, ASSAf will host a pre-travel meeting where the eight young scientists will have an opportunity to interact with alumni from the Lindau Laureate meetings. The alumni will share their experiences and the opportunities that come after participating in these prestigious, life-changing meetings. ASSAf and DSI executives will engage the scientists at the pre-travel Lindau Dinner to deliver messages of encouragement and discuss what is expected of the young scientists as they represent South Africa on the global stage. Following this event, there will be a Science Engagement activity with high school learners.

* Compiled by Philip van der Merwe, Editor, Department of Institutional Advancement