| Two SU students honoured at L’Oréal-UNESCO Awards | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11066 | | Two SU students honoured at L’Oréal-UNESCO Awards | Corporate Communications and Marketing | <p>Two exceptional doctoral students from Stellenbosch University (SU), <strong>Pamela Ncube</strong> and <strong>Welile Nwamba</strong>, have been named recipients of the 2024 L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Young Talents Sub-Saharan Africa Awards. </p><p>This prestigious accolade, which celebrates the achievements of African women scientists, recognises their groundbreaking research in addressing critical health challenges on the continent.</p><p>The awards, held annually by the Foundation L'Oréal and UNESCO, highlight the vital contributions of African women to scientific innovation. This year's 30 winners, chosen from nearly 800 applicants, include 25 PhD candidates and five post-doctoral researchers from 15 African countries. These women are advancing solutions to issues such as food security, public health and climate resilience. </p><p>This year's ceremony in Cotonou, Benin also marked the programme's 15th anniversary, celebrating its impact in empowering over 240 researchers across the region since inception.</p><p><strong>Improving TB detection in wildlife</strong></p><p>Ncube, a doctoral student in biological sciences at SU's Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, has been recognised for her pioneering research on animal tuberculosis (TB) caused by <em>Mycobacterium bovis</em>. Her study, the first of its kind, focuses on the effects of this lesser-known pathogen on wildlife, including species such as lions, warthogs and buffalos. By understanding how <em>Mycobacterium bovis</em> reacts in different environmental conditions, Ncube aims to develop novel diagnostic tools to enhance animal welfare, reduce unnecessary culling and support conservation efforts across Sub-Saharan Africa.</p><p>Ncube's passion for biomedical sciences was ignited during her undergraduate studies, when she developed an interest in the phenotypic nature of microorganisms. Her work, she explains, is not only about improving diagnostics, but also about minimising the financial and ecological consequences of tuberculosis outbreaks in wildlife. She is motivated to inspire young women and children from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue their scientific dreams.</p><p>Ncube described the L'Oréal-UNESCO recognition as a testament to years of hard work, academic dedication, research, leadership and community engagement. She credited her success to the supportive academic environment and mentors who have consistently helped her reach her goals. </p><p>“As a woman in science, I have faced challenges such as self-doubt and limited funding," says Ncube. “This award serves as positive inspiration to young girls and women who may often feel discouraged to pursue their dreams due to challenging circumstances."</p><p><strong>Innovating diagnostics for extra-pulmonary TB</strong></p><p>Nwamba, a doctoral student in medical engineering at SU's Clinical Mycobacteriology and Epidemiology Group, is tackling extra-pulmonary TB, a condition that affects up to 30% of TB patients in Sub-Saharan Africa. This form of TB is often misdiagnosed due to its varied symptoms and limited diagnostic resources in rural areas. </p><p>Nwamba's research centres on developing a cost-effective, rapid urine test that simplifies the detection process, providing an accessible alternative to complex molecular diagnostics and imaging technologies.</p><p>“My innovative approach aims to accelerate TB diagnosis, particularly in low-resource settings, ultimately improving patients' quality of life," she explains. “Science is about offering diverse perspectives, breaking barriers and motivating future generations."<br></p><p>She is delighted and honoured to be recognised with the 2024 L'Oréal-UNESCO Award. “It is a wonderful accomplishment that marks a milestone in my career. It's a profound confirmation of my hard work and dedication that validates my resilience, perseverance and passion for science."<br></p><p>Inspired by her lecturers during her first year at university, Nwamba envisions leading a research team dedicated to clinical advancements in tuberculosis. Her work highlights the transformative power of science to address pressing public health challenges while fostering inclusivity and diversity in research.</p><p><strong>The broader impact</strong></p><p>The achievements of these two researchers reflect the growing recognition of women's critical role in science. According to UNESCO, women represent 31,5% of researchers in Sub-Saharan Africa. The L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science programme not only provides financial support, but also equips award recipients with leadership, communication and negotiation skills to overcome systemic barriers and drive innovation.</p><p>“By investing in science and championing innovation, African societies can empower the next generation to tackle pressing environmental and health challenges," said Lidia Brito, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences.</p><p>As part of a global initiative that has supported over 4 400 women researchers since 1998, the awards amplify the voices of women like Ncube and Nwamba who are paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.<br></p><p><br></p> |
| First-ever sighting of rare siphonophore in False Bay, South Africa | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11059 | | First-ever sighting of rare siphonophore in False Bay, South Africa | Faculty of Science (media & communication) | <p>Scientists have recorded the first documented appearance of the rare siphonophore <em>Rhizophysa eysenhardtii</em> in False Bay, South Africa. Published in <a href="https://africaninvertebrates.pensoft.net/article/136267/"><em>African Invertebrates</em></a>, this discovery extends the known range of the species by 450 km and sheds more light on the biology of a fascinating and poorly known organism. It also highlights the unique and delicate biodiversity of the South African marine life and the Great African Seaforest.</p><p><em>Rhizophysa eysenhardtii</em> is a siphonophore, a member of a remarkable group of marine organisms in the phylum Cnidaria, which also includes jellyfish, corals and sea anemones. Siphonophores are colonies of specialised individuals, called “zooids", that work together as one. This species was observed by freedivers between June and September 2022.</p><p>“When I saw this siphonophore for the first time, I got so excited and couldn't believe my eyes," said marine biologist Dr. Jannes Landschoff from the <a href="https://seachangeproject.com/">Sea Change Project</a>, who co-authored the study and found <em>Rhizophysa eysenhardtii</em> together with his team. “I immediately knew it was a special discovery, and I wanted to learn more about this exquisite life form." Landschoff is also a Research Fellow at the <a href="/english/pgstudies/Pages/Science/Botany-and-Zoology.aspx">Department of Botany and Zoology, Stellenbosch University</a>.<br></p><p>“These animals are rarely documented despite their ecological importance," said first-author Dr Gill Mapstone from the Natural History Museum, London, who has dedicated her career to studying the morphology and systematics of siphonophores. The observations, captured via underwater photography and videography, revealed the siphonophore's characteristic pink tentacles and translucent bodies. Their diet was shown to include fish larvae, with one specimen even capturing a chaetognath, a predatory marine worm. “Seeing the photos of these spectacular animals made me realise once more why I started working on this group in the first place. They are just so incredible," Mapstone said.</p><p>This discovery has broader implications for understanding biodiversity in the region. Baseline data, such as species distribution records of rarely sampled animals, play important roles for monitoring this diverse and understudied ocean region. The presence of <em>R. eysenhardtii</em> in False Bay, within the Benguela Ecosystem, may signal shifts in marine species distribution driven by ocean currents or environmental changes.</p><p>The researchers highlight the importance of studying siphonophores and other small marine invertebrates to better understand their roles in ocean ecosystems. Protecting habitats like the Great African Seaforest is vital for preserving these species and the ecological services they provide.<br></p><p>This study is part of the <a href="https://seachangeproject.com/1001-seaforest-species/"><em>1001 Seaforest Species</em></a> initiative supported by and in collaboration with the <a href="https://saveourseas.com/project/1001-seaforest-species/">Save Our Seas Foundation</a>. While documenting 1001 species, the project merges marine biology research with environmental storytelling to raise local and global awareness about biodiversity's critical role in human survival and the Great African Seaforest's significance as a global beacon of biodiversity.</p><p>“Our findings underscore the need to safeguard marine biodiversity and improve documentation of rarely observed species," Landschoff concludes.<br></p><p><strong>Original article: </strong></p><p>Mapstone GM, Landschoff J (2024) The rare siphonophore <em>Rhizophysa eysenhardtii</em> Gegenbaur, 1859 (Hydrozoa, Siphonophora, Cystonectae) from False Bay, South Africa. African Invertebrates 65(2): 213-221.</p><p>Link to the study: [<a href="https://doi.org/10.3897/AfrInvertebr.65.136267">https://doi.org/10.3897/AfrInvertebr.65.136267</a><br></p><p><strong>Media links: </strong><br></p><p> <em>Instagram:</em> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/seachangeproject/?hl=en">https://www.instagram.com/seachangeproject/?hl=en</a></p><p>#1001species #1001seaforestspecies</p><p> <em>Facebook:</em> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theseachangeproject/">https://www.facebook.com/theseachangeproject/</a></p><p><em>LinkedIn: </em><a href="https://za.linkedin.com/company/sea-change-project">https://za.linkedin.com/company/sea-change-project</a><br></p><p><br></p> |
| SU and Shoprite partnership empowers first cohort of data science graduates | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11045 | | SU and Shoprite partnership empowers first cohort of data science graduates | Faculty of Science (media & communication) | <p></p><p>A long-standing partnership between Stellenbosch University (SU) and the Shoprite Group has enabled the first cohort of graduates in the Data Science programme to engage with real life business challenges from the retail industry.</p><p>For their final year project in the Computer Science Division, for example, Günther Tonitz and Steffan Schoonbee tackled the hard question of promotional timing: When is the right time to promote which item, and for how long? </p><p>“We quickly realised the much more difficult question was whether items on promotion actually lead to success from a retail perspective," explains Günther. In other words, if a customer buys five of the same items on promotion – what is known as pantry stocking – it may mean that they are not going to buy that product again for the next five months. </p><p>In another scenario, called off-target shopping, a customer may buy a promotional item, such as a soft drink, and then add a few bags of chips (that are not on promotion) for throwing a party, Steffan adds.</p><p>Which approach then, can be defined as a success?</p><p>To answer this question, the students were given access to two years' worth of data from one of the Shoprite Group's supermarkets. It included 16 000 articles, equating to 78 000 promotional combinations. This dataset was further enhanced with stock movement data over a nine-month period, covering 18 000 articles. The dataset contained over 1 million stock movements. Working with 14 million sales transactions, Steffan and Gunther built a dashboard to predict the success of future promotions, based on the performance of previous promotions.</p><p>According to Debbie Vigario, Head of Engineering at the Shoprite Group's Data Analytics Office (and a SU alumnus), their approach is to provide students with real life business challenges: “We support them through the analytical development life cycle while challenging their thinking along the way. We assigned mentors to students and ensured that we engaged regularly to support and guide them."</p><p>With the launch of the B-degree in Data Science and the BEng Data Engineering programs in 2019, the Group engaged with the various faculty leadership on ways they could partner with SU on project work. This engagement led to the various real-life projects for final-year students in the Computer Science focal area within the BDatSci programme.</p><p>Dr. Mkhuseli Ngxande from SU's Computer Science Division says the BDatSci programme with a Computer Science focus emphasises technical expertise in software engineering, web development, and data science: “It equips students with practical skills to develop end-to-end solutions that are both innovative and well documented. This focal area is distinct from others like Economics and Management Sciences or AgriSciences, as it centres on technical implementation, computational problem-solving, and creating software-driven data solutions rather than applying data science concepts to domain-specific problems in business, agriculture, or environmental studies," he explains.</p><p>While this is the first cohort of five BDatSci graduates in the Computer Science focal area, there are another 20 to 25 students in the undergraduate pipeline.</p><p>He says it is challenging for students to gain access to large datasets independently due to privacy concerns, licensing restrictions, and the infrastructure needed to handle such data. Collaborations like those with Shoprite are invaluable in bridging this gap. </p><p>Prof. Ingrid Rewitzky, head of the Department of Mathematical Sciences and Vice-Dean: Teaching and Learning for the Faculty of Science, says the partnership with Shoprite contributes towards “enhancing student success through unlocking opportunities for work-integrated learning and for equipping students with skills and competencies to be competitive for their future employment applications".</p><p>The final-year BDatSci (CS) students are Dirk Hoffmann, Steffan Schoonbee, Shriyan Singh, Günther Tonitz, and Franco Uys.</p><p><strong>On the photo above:</strong></p><p>The first cohort of students in the Data Science Programme at Stellenbosch University (SU) graduated this week. This group, which graduated in the Computer Science focal area, were mentored by Debbie Vigario, Head of Engineering at the Shoprite Group's Data Analytics Office. The students are, from left to right, Dirk Hoffmann, Shriyan Singh, Steffan Schoonbee, and Günther Tonitz. Franco Uys was absent when the photo was taken. <em>Image: Wiida Fourie-Basson</em></p><p><b>More about the long-standing partnership</b></p><p>The collaboration between SU and the retailer started in 2017 when the Shoprite Group engaged with the Operations Research programme in the Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences. In 2019 the retailer formed a relationship with Launchlab to sponsor students for incubation programs and engagements with the School for Data Science and Computational Thinking. Since 2023, the Group has an industry representative on the governing board of the Centre for Multi-Dimensional Visualisation in SU's <a href="/english/faculty/economy/MuViSU/Pages/vision-mission.aspx">Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science</a>. <br></p><p><br></p> |
| Master’s study brings us closer to safer, reversible male contraception | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11037 | | Master’s study brings us closer to safer, reversible male contraception | Corporate Communication and Marketing/Korporatiewe Kommunikasie en Bemarking [Alec Basson] | <p>A new study at Stellenbosch University (SU) shows that a safer, more effective, and reversible contraceptive for men is within reach.<br></p><p>Kyla Raoult, who obtained her master's degree in Polymer Science at SU's December graduation on Tuesday (10 December 2024), developed an on-demand reversible hydrogel that could be used as a reversible, non-hormonal birth control for men. A hydrogel is a soft jelly-like material that absorbs water and swells to form a 3D net-like network with pores.<br></p><p>Raoult says the idea is to inject the gel into the vas deferens – the tube that carries sperm out of testicles – where it swells in response to watery bodily fluids to create a semi-permeable barrier. Once swollen, the hydrogel's pores allow seminal fluid to pass but block the passage of sperm, as they are too large to fit through. The blocked sperm is then reabsorbed by the body, similar to what happens after a vasectomy. The gel, which forms in the vas deferens in under a minute, can be injected in a doctor's office.<br></p><p>“The hydrogel is designed to stay in place until the patient wants to restore fertility. This technology could help men reduce their fertility, without the usual side effects of hormone blockers, and then restore it when they're ready to start a family. It is important to note that the actual duration of contraception must still be studied and confirmed in clinical trials."<br></p><p>Raoult points out that the on-demand reversible hydrogel is based on two polymers (large synthetic molecules) that chemically react to form it. These polymers are also safe for use inside the body. <br></p><p>“By simply injecting a solution into the gel to reverse the process, the chemical bonds in the gel are broken, causing it to dissolve into a watery substance that can be flushed out."<br></p><p>When asked what inspired her to explore this specific approach to contraception, Raoult explains that most contraceptives are designed for females. <br></p><p>“Men's options are mostly limited to condoms, vasectomies and some hormone-based methods. Condoms aren't always 100% effective and since they are known to decrease sexual stimulation, they are often used incorrectly, if used at all. <br></p><p>“Vasectomies are excellent contraceptives, but their reversal often results in complications, and they are more of a permanent option. <br></p><p>“The hormonal options are still being tested, and their effectiveness has yet to be proven. They are also often associated with negative side effects. So, there is a clear need for a reversible, non-hormonal male contraceptive."<br></p><p>“Other hydrogels that are being developed rely on external massaging or vibrations to break them down, which often results in damage to the vas deferens. Our technology is designed to make reversibility quicker and easier," adds Raoult. <br></p><p>She says there is a growing interest among men to help prevent unwanted pregnancies.<br></p><p>“If our technology can provide men with a safe, one-time insertion, easily reversible option, I believe that the idea of men contributing to the prevention of unplanned and often unwanted pregnancies will be realistic. Gender equality in contraception is important as both men and women should be responsible for contributing to safer sex practices."<br></p><p>Raoult notes that a well-known hydrogel contraceptive called RISUG (Reversible Inhibition of Sperm Under Guidance) was developed about a decade ago in India. It was made from a polymer that is the focus of the Klumperman Research Group, led by her supervisor, Professor Bert Klumperman, from SU's Department of Chemistry & Polymer Science. Her project builds on previous work done in the group to make this technology better and more reversible.<br></p><p>Raoult explains that, since the project is still in its developmental stage and needs further laboratory studies before clinical trials, it is not possible to estimate when the technology will be available on the market.<br></p><p>She has already started working for a US-based biotechnology company, NEXT Life Sciences, that is busy developing hydrogels for male contraception.<br></p><p></p><ul><li><strong>Photo</strong>: Kyla Raoult at the graduation ceremony. <strong>Photographer</strong>: Stefan Els</li></ul><p></p><p><br></p> |
| Meet Joel and Veer – duo behind the SASSA fraud exposure | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11031 | | Meet Joel and Veer – duo behind the SASSA fraud exposure | Wiida Fourie-Basson (Media: Faculty of Science) | <p>They must be the two most recognizable first year computer science students in South Africa.</p><p>Stellenbosch University (SU) students <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/veer-gosai/">Veer Gosai</a> (19) and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-cedras-053bba2ab/">Joel Cedras</a> (18) met each other in April 2024 during a computer science tutorial. The two immediately hit it off when they started talking about their own IT projects, developed while still at school.</p><p>Veer, who matriculated from Fourways High School in Johannesburg, has been building and managing free educational websites since high school. <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.sapapers.co.za/&data=05%7c02%7c%7c1f28f1afdf3c410cb7ae08dd108a6acd%7ca6fa3b030a3c42588433a120dffcd348%7c0%7c0%7c638684908871006713%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=arifUWOtaMDTHPGg7M0Vgut%2Bpd53oSuoxKifgyyVJ4w%3D&reserved=0">SA Papers</a> is a past exam papers website for primary and high school learners in South Africa which has received over three million visitors in 2024. He is now building similar websites and mobile apps for learners in <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.rwandapapers.co.rw/&data=05%7c02%7c%7c1f28f1afdf3c410cb7ae08dd108a6acd%7ca6fa3b030a3c42588433a120dffcd348%7c0%7c0%7c638684908871029676%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=wQ1vG/j2k72AStpD%2BmNFqthMFAyhx08x1yt2UEulQNc%3D&reserved=0">Rwanda</a>, <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.zambiapapers.co.zm/&data=05%7c02%7c%7c1f28f1afdf3c410cb7ae08dd108a6acd%7ca6fa3b030a3c42588433a120dffcd348%7c0%7c0%7c638684908871043837%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=6zyjOkJOiDWp0FBIwxXPBk7sGjjBr5UHjGUhqJM08JA%3D&reserved=0">Zambia</a>, and other developing countries </p><p>Joel, an alumnus of Protea Heights Academy in Brackenfell, has been coding since he was at primary school. Outside academia he is a <a href="https://joelcedras.dev/">freelance web developer</a>, building websites for small businesses and non-profits. </p><p>Since that first meeting, their friendship – and computer skills – have taken them on a whirlwind journey. After exposing major weaknesses in SASSA's social grant payment system and fraud in the application for the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant, published in <a href="https://groundup.org.za/article/we-discovered-flaws-massive-fraud-in-sassas-srd-system/">GroundUp</a>, they have been summoned to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/hK-LFmxZ-dU?si=ejy4EswieM1jF9uA">Parliament</a> and have given interviews to television stations, radio and print media such as eNCA, Cape Talk, PowerFM, IOL, You Magazine, Die Burger, the SABC and countless more. </p><p>Recently Ms Nokuzola Tolashe, Minister for Social Development, commended the two students for bringing these findings to light. </p><p>Veer says most of the code involved in exposing the SASSA fraud has been in JavaScript, which they learnt while still at school. During their first year at university, they learnt how to write efficient and readable code, including Python. </p><p>With all this knowledge and skills combined, the pair is on a mission to improve the IT systems of public institutions and private sector companies in South Africa for the public good: “We are two first-year computer science students studying at Stellenbosch University, and we find vulnerabilities in various government and private-sector systems using publicly available internet resources," Veer and Joel explain.</p><p>Are there any more investigations in the pipeline?</p><p>“We are currently working on a few new investigations besides the SASSA and <a href="https://groundup.org.za/article/this-mobile-provider-failing-to-implement-rica-law/">Me&You RICA Fraud</a> issue which involve vulnerabilities we've found in many private companies," they add.</p><p>In this regard, they work closely with the editor-in-chief of GroupdUp, Dr Nathan Geffen, to bring these stories to light: “Nathan has been instrumental in guiding us on how to approach this ethically. He helped us in reporting the various matters to relevant people and departments and helped us draft our articles. He has been an asset in analysing our findings, as he also has a Computer Science and data-driven background. His platform, GroundUp, has allowed us to publish our damning findings, which are of extreme public importance, and his team has guided us to succeed in doing this."</p><p>All in all, the two are unfazed about their celebrity status: “The media and public view our findings in a positive manner. We are very happy that SASSA, the Department of Social Development, the Portfolio Committee on Social Development and the South African public all agree that the issues in the SRD system need to be resolved urgently as it negatively affects the most vulnerable people. </p><p>“We are grateful to the public for seeing the importance of this matter, and we are grateful to the various news platforms for reporting on the matter," they conclude.</p><p>Below are quick links to their exposes and briefing to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Social Development:</p><p><a href="https://groundup.org.za/article/we-discovered-flaws-massive-fraud-in-sassas-srd-system/">https://groundup.org.za/article/we-discovered-flaws-massive-fraud-in-sassas-srd-system/</a></p><p><a href="https://groundup.org.za/article/social-grant-fraud-sassas-responses-inspire-no-confidence/">https://groundup.org.za/article/social-grant-fraud-sassas-responses-inspire-no-confidence/</a></p><p><a href="https://www.parliament.gov.za/press-releases/media-alert-social-development-committee-be-briefed-alleged-weaknesses-sassas-social-grant-payment-system">https://www.parliament.gov.za/press-releases/media-alert-social-development-committee-be-briefed-alleged-weaknesses-sassas-social-grant-payment-system</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/hK-LFmxZ-dU?si=ejy4EswieM1jF9uA">https://www.youtube.com/live/hK-LFmxZ-dU?si=ejy4EswieM1jF9uA</a></p><p><a href="https://groundup.org.za/article/this-mobile-provider-failing-to-implement-rica-law/">https://groundup.org.za/article/this-mobile-provider-failing-to-implement-rica-law/</a><br></p><p>On the photo above, Joel Cedras and Veer Gosai. Photo: Stefan Els<br></p> |
| €7.5 million grant awarded to research combining maths and theoretical computer science | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11029 | | €7.5 million grant awarded to research combining maths and theoretical computer science | Faculty of Science (media & communication) | <p><br>Prof. Florian Luca, a number theorist in Stellenbosch University's (SU) <a href="https://mathsci.sun.ac.za/">Department of Mathematical Sciences</a>, is one of three principal investigators who have been awarded a <a href="https://erc.europa.eu/news-events/news/erc-2024-synergy-grants-results">Synergy Grant</a> to the value of €7.5 million (about R143,1 million) from the European Research Council (ERC).</p><p>The other two principal investigators are Prof. Valérie Berthé from the French Institut de recherche en informatique fondamentale at the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) at the University Paris Cité, and Prof. Joël Ouaknine, Scientific Director at the Max Planck Institute for Software Systems (MPI-SWS) in Saarbrücken, Germany.</p><p>The <a href="https://erc.europa.eu/news-events/news/erc-2024-synergy-grants-results">ERC Synergy Grants</a> foster collaboration between outstanding researchers, enabling them to combine their expertise, knowledge and resources to push the boundaries of scientific discovery. The funding is part of the European Union's Horizon Europe research and innovation programme. The competition for this year's funding round was intense, with only 57 (10.4%) proposals out of a total of 548 succeeding.</p><p>Over the next six years, this multidisciplinary team from the fields of number theory and theoretical computer science are taking a “high-risk, high gains" approach to tackle one of the key computational challenges represented by so-called “discrete dynamical systems" – that is, systems that change over time following specific rules.</p><p>According to a <a href="https://www.mpi-sws.org/news/">media release</a> issued by the Max Planck Institute, creating algorithmic solutions to make these systems amenable to automated verification techniques remain a major challenge, especially in fields such as program analysis and computer-aided verification to artificial intelligence and theoretical biology.</p><p>“The paradigm of 'model checking' is a powerful method that allows us to automatically verify, with mathematical certainty, whether a system behaves as intended," explains Prof. Ouaknine. However, many discrete dynamical systems cannot currently be verified with the available model-checking approaches.</p><p>One of the leading objectives of this new research project, titled “Dynamical and Arithmetical Model Checking (DynAMiCs)" is to substantially broaden the classes of dynamical systems and properties that can be algorithmically handled via model checking. Specifically, it aims to tackle longstanding mathematical challenges, such as the Skolem Problem, that could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and verifying the behavior of other complex systems.</p><p>Prof. Luca says their successful proposal is based on a very firm research foundation: “My cooperation with Joël's team started in late 2019. At that time, I was a visitor at the Max Planck Institute for Mathematics in Bonn and he and his team came from Saarbrücken looking for mathematicians who would be interested in working on problems from the field of theoretical computer science."</p><p>Since Prof. Luca is already well-known as a “<a href="/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10803">problem-solver</a>" amongst peers and colleagues, the Saarbrücken team was advised to meet with him. </p><p>“Since that first meeting, I would spend a few months per year at the Max Planck Institute for Software Systems working with Joël and his group. By now we have published some 15 papers in which we made substantial progress on some hard problems. The idea of applying for an ERC grant came at a workshop in Barbados in May last year where Valérie from CNRS, Joël and I were all present and for the next five months we worked on the proposal," he explains.</p><p>It took 11 months and various steps, including an in-person interview at the ERC headquarters in Brussels on 10 September 2024, where they had to present their project and answer questions from a panel of 20 specialists. </p><p>Prof. Luca says most of the grant will be used to hire postdoctoral fellows and PhD students to help advance the project and contribute to training a new generation of researchers. The team is also planning two summer schools and several seminars and workshops.</p><p>While he will be working at the Max Planck Institute for six months of the year, his research group here at SU will work on the project full time. There will also be opportunities for exchange programmes between the institutions and many other collaborators involved.</p><p>For now, postgraduate students interested in joining this project should watch out for the first advertisements going out in December and January next year. The project starts officially in March 2025, and Prof. Luca will leave for his first stint of six months at the Max Planck Institute after the end of the first semester.</p><p>“Because of my unique position of being able to cooperate with both the National Research Foundation via SU and being a principal investigator of an ERC funded team, I hope to be able to bring some South African students and postdocs to either be part of the ERC team or to visit for various periods of time with the above (or some other similar) opportunity," he concludes.</p><p>Prof. Ingrid Rewitzky, SU's Head of the Department of Mathematical Sciences and the Faculty of Science Vice-Dean: Teaching and Learning, congratulated Prof. Luca on this excellent achievement: “We are excited about the opportunities for researchers, postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows to collaborate with this inspiring DynAMiCs team. As a department, we look forward to hosting team members of the DynAMiCs project for research visits, collaboration and jointly hosting research workshops and seminars."<br></p><p><em>Image credit: Stefan Els</em><br></p><p><br></p> |
| Tiny microbes called up in fight against climate change | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10985 | | Tiny microbes called up in fight against climate change | Wiida Fourie-Basson (Media: Faculty of Science) | <p></p><p>Prof. Thulani Makhalanyane from Stellenbosch University is one of 18 leading microbiologists worldwide, representing 24 microbiology scientific societies and institutions, urging international governments to deploy microbes against climate change.</p><p>In a paper published across 14 international journals on the same day – regarded as an unprecedented accomplishment to emphasise the urgency of this call to action – the group of 18 outlines six simple microbial “vaccines" that could be fast-tracked to address the widespread impacts of climate change.</p><p>According to an international media release, the impacts of climate change are of a much bigger and more widespread scale than the COVID-19 pandemic: “Catastrophic weather events are claiming lives at an alarming rate, feeding the global population has never been harder due to loss of crop yields, and sea level rise is claiming entire nations across the Pacific".</p><p>According to Prof. Makhalanyane, they are advocating for the incorporation of microbial community data in ongoing discussions linked to the Conference of Parties (COP) and other United Nations bodies: “These agencies have advocated for special protection areas, but there is a lack of understanding regarding the potential feedbacks from microbial activities and the fact that these may lessen, or worsen, the effects of climate change," he warns.</p><p>In the case of coral reefs, for example, the symbiotic host-microbiome relationship between corals and their microbes has been replaced by pathogenic (i.e., dysbiotic) interactions. This has led to ongoing coral bleaching events and potentially the extinction of these “rainforests of the sea"' in our own lifetime. </p><p>According to the microbiologists there exists a wealth of evidence that microbes and the microbiome have untapped potential as viable climate solutions – but only if these solutions are fast-tracked and employed on a global scale.</p><p>In the instance of carbon sequestration, for example, they argue for the incorporation of microbial community data in current climate models: “These models do not consider the fact that microbial communities contribute substantially to carbon sequestration and there doesn't appear to be a plan on how to do this," Makhalanyane explains.</p><p>We furthermore lack an understanding regarding the full extent of microbial diversity in Africa's diverse and unique environments: “In order to apply the 'remedies' it is important to know what microorganisms are harboured in African ecosystems. We urgently need to expand studies on African microbiomes and this has been a focus of our research at Stellenbosch. For example, to think about the fertilizer revolution, and applications to African farmlands, we need to isolate bacteria from these soils for long term sustainable development," Makhalanyane adds. </p><p>The list of microbial solutions the group are calling for include:<br></p><ul><li><strong>Carbon sequestration boosters </strong>-<strong> </strong>Using microbes to help lock carbon into soils and oceans, cutting down CO₂ in the atmosphere and enriching soil for better crop growth.</li><li><strong>Methane busters </strong>-<strong> </strong>Incorporating bacteria into landfill sites to reduce the methane that litter emits. This can also be applied to livestock farms and wetlands.</li><li><strong>Microbial bioenergy </strong>- Using algae, yeast, sugarcane, vegetable oils and animal fats to make biofuels that replace the need for fossil fuel.</li><li><strong>Pollution fighters </strong>- Using microbes to breakdown the pollutants in industrial waste from construction sites, cleaning up contaminated land and water.</li><li><strong>Microbiome therapy </strong>- Changing the diet of cows to reduce the methane they produce.</li><li><strong>Fertilizer revolution </strong>- Replacing synthetic nitrogen in fertilizers with natural bacteria to improve air and water quality.</li></ul><p>Prof. Raquel Peixoto from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology and president of the International Society for Microbial Ecology, says in the media release that their call to action is to recognize the urgency of addressing the climate crisis by developing an emergency framework of simple solutions. <br></p><p>The scientific societies and institutions involved are already working together and ready to quickly compose a “task force" to support stakeholders and facilitate the development and deployment of these solutions.</p><p>“We encourage all relevant initiatives, governments, and stakeholders to reach out to us at <a href="mailto:climate@isme-microbes.org">climate@isme-microbes.org</a>. We are ready and willing to use our expertise, data, time, and support for immediate action," they conclude.</p><p>The paper titled “<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41564-024-01861-0">Microbial solutions must be deployed against climate catastrophe</a>" was published in the following journals simultaneously: <em>Sustainable Microbiology</em>, <em>ISME Journal</em>, <em>mSystems</em>, <em>FEMS Microbiology Ecology</em>, <em>Nature</em> <em>Microbiology</em>, <em>Nature Reviews</em>, <em>Microbiology</em>, <em>Nature Reviews Earth and Environment</em>, <em>Nature Communications</em>, <em>Communications Biology</em>, <em>Communications Earth and Environment</em>, <em>npj Biodiversity</em>, <em>npj Biofilms and Microbiomes</em>, <em>npj Climate Action</em>, <em>npj Sustainable Agriculture</em>.<br></p> |
| Maths and science teachers gather at SU to tackle gap between high school and university | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10990 | | Maths and science teachers gather at SU to tackle gap between high school and university | Faculty of Science (media and communication) | <p>More than fifty mathematics and physical science teachers from Western Cape high schools gathered at Stellenbosch University (SU) this week for the annual Maths and Science Teachers' Forum (MSTF).</p><p>The MSTF is an initiative of the Faculty of Science to bridge the gap between teachers and first year lecturers in the fields of the fundamental sciences. </p><p><img src="/english/PublishingImages/Lists/dualnews/My%20Items%20View/MSTF_1.png" alt="MSTF_1.png" style="margin:5px;" /><br><br></p><p>Mariétta van den Worm, Directory: Faculty Management, says the primary objectives of the MSTF are to bridge the curriculum knowledge gap between teachers and lecturers; to build meaningful and impactful relationships that can aid in the recruitment, selection, admission, and preparedness of prospective first year science students; and fostering collaborations for curriculum engagements, upskilling, and social impact.</p><p>“The idea is for the faculty to host teachers for insightful events where they can engage with the lecturers and together address possible challenges that first year students encounter in the curriculum," she explains. </p><p>This is the second such event this year hosted in partnership with SU's Division Student Recruitment. According to Christelle Feyt, Senior Director: Student Recruitment, the partnership with the Faculty of Science is in line with the integrated recruitment strategy approved by Rectorate at the end of 2023. </p><p>“The Integrated Student Recruitment Strategy rests on five pillars, of which collaborative partnerships with faculties and external stakeholders, such as teachers, feature prominently. The strategy also makes provision for the establishment of communities of practice for student recruitment and widening participation," she adds.</p><p>The first community of practice for undergraduate student recruitment was established in June: “All faculty staff involved with recruitment and the Division Student Recruitment were brought together to enable colleagues across faculties to share best practices in student recruitment, institutional knowledge and resources, and to promote open communication, flexibility and agility in meeting the expectations and needs of prospective students and their influencer groups, such as parents and teachers," she concludes.<br></p><p><img src="/english/PublishingImages/Lists/dualnews/My%20Items%20View/MSTF_2.png" alt="MSTF_2.png" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p><p>During this week's event, teachers were welcomed by Prof. Bertie Fielding, Dean of the Faculty of Science, while first year students shared stories about how they were inspired by their primary and secondary teachers to study mathematics and physical sciences. First year lecturers such as Dr Philip Southey demonstrated some of the many career opportunities in the natural sciences that are not in the fields of engineering or medicine, while Dr Riana Roux showed graphs of the many fields of study where mathematics is a requirement. </p><p>“In other words," she emphasized, “if learners choose to rather pursue Mathematics Literacy, it will drastically reduce future study options."</p><p>After the event, several teachers expressed their appreciation for the initiative. More than one asked for similar engagements in the future. While they appreciated the “contagious enthusiasm" of the first-year lecturers and students, they also emphasised that teachers' concerns should be acknowledged more, and that it may be beneficial in future to include curriculum experts from the Western Cape Department of Education. </p><p><em>Images: Henk Oets</em></p> |
| Physics postgrads reap 5 out of 10 awards at ICO-26 | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10977 | | Physics postgrads reap 5 out of 10 awards at ICO-26 | Faculty of Science (media & communication) | <p></p><p>Postgraduate students in Stellenbosch University's (SU) Department of Physics walked away with five of the ten student awards during the recent <a href="https://ico26.com/">26th Congress of the International Commission for Optics</a> (ICO-26) hosted at SU.</p><p>Dr Yaseera Ismail, chair of the organizing committee and a quantum physicist at SU, says this is the first time for the ICO-congress to take place on African soil: “This year, we significantly lowered the registration fee so that more South African students could participate. Normally, these meetings are so expensive that we can barely afford to send one or two students to attend."</p><p>The award-winning students are Eugene Fouché (Best PhD Poster), Pashlene Naidoo (Best MSc Poster), Conrad Strydom (Innovative Research award), Tebogo Ledwaba (Industry-focused award), and Kelsey Everts (Best Poster on Advances in Optical Imaging and Spectroscopy).</p><p>Conrad, a PhD student in quantum physics, says it was a wonderful opportunity to attend and present at ICO26: “I could listen to some of the most exciting and cutting-edge research taking place in optics and photonics. Being awarded the prize for the most innovative research is a great inspiration to continue in this field."</p><p>For Tebogo Ledwaba, a PhD student in photonics, it was a daunting experience to stand next to her poster and having students and professors approach her with questions: “I'm usually more interested in other people's work, asking them questions out of genuine curiosity. I often don't share much about my own research unless they ask," she explains.</p><p>For her, ICO-26 was especially interesting: “I got to learn about various applications of light. I also learned, for the first time, about visible light telescopes and optical frequency combs," she adds.</p><p><strong>World-renowned speakers</strong></p><p>As chair of the organizing committee, Dr Ismail also arranged a public lecture on the SU Campus by the 2018 Nobel Laureate in Physics, Prof. Donna Strickland, who is currently a professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Waterloo, Canada.</p><p>Another Nobel Laureate in Physics (2023) was Prof. Anne L'Hullier from Lund University, Sweden. She led discussions on nonlinear optics, high-intensity lasers, and the evolution of attosecond science. </p><p>Other notable speakers included Prof. Juan Yin from the University of Science and Technology, China, and Prof. Gerd Leuchs from the Max Planck Institute and OPTICA president. They covered transformative topics, from space-based quantum physics to classical optics. Prof. Carlos Hernandez-Garzia, a recipient of the ICO award for 2023, presented on attosecond pulse structuring, while other speakers shared their work in areas like phototonics, programmable phototonics, and optical manipulation.</p><p>“As a first for Africa, ICO-26 laid the groundwork for ongoing international cooperation in advancing optics research and its real-world applications," Dr Ismail concludes.</p><p><em>On the photo, from left to right: Conrad Strydom (PhD student in quantum physics), Dr Yaseera Ismail, Tebogo Ledwaba (PhD student in photonics), Pashlene Naidoo (MSc student in quantum physics), Kelsey Everts (MSc student in photonics), and Eugene Fouché (PhD student in photonics). Credit: Wiida Fourie-Basson</em></p> |
| SU experts honoured by the Academy of Science of SA | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10956 | | SU experts honoured by the Academy of Science of SA | Corporate Communication and Marketing Division (CCMD) | <p>Five senior academics from Stellenbosch University (SU) were among the 44 leading scholars and scientists inaugurated as new members of the <a href="https://eur01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.assaf.org.za/&data=05%7c01%7cltshifura%40uj.ac.za%7c0ea55029350f49787b0608dbe447f0c7%7cfa785acd36ef41bc8a9489841327e045%7c1%7c0%7c638354769897779363%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7c3000%7c%7c%7c&sdata=QoCo/xkbJvbu2opUeCloX%2Bo0KSz3LUFCLgyvy2lUE4o%3D&reserved=0">Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf)</a> at the annual Awards Ceremony on 23 October. At the event, two young researchers from SU were welcomed to the South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS).</p><p>As the official national Academy of South Africa, ASSAf has as core function to honour the country's most outstanding scholars by electing them to membership of the Academy. ASSAf members are drawn from the full spectrum of disciplines. The 44 new ASSAf members bring the total membership of ASSAf to 730.</p><p><strong>Two of the five newly elected ASSAf members from SU are from the Faculty of Science. </strong>They are <strong>Prof Resia Pretorius,</strong> a Distinguished Research Professor in the Department of Physiological Sciences, and <strong>Prof Johann Rohwer,</strong> Professor of Systems Biology in the Department of Biochemistry.</p><p>The other SU academics are <strong>Prof Reinette Biggs</strong>, Co-director: Centre for Sustainability Transitions (CST) and DST/NRF SARChI Chairholder in Social-Ecological Systems and Resilience; <strong>Prof Anna-Maria Oberholster,</strong> Professor of Genetics: Genetics Department, Faculty of AgriSciences SU experts honoured by the Academy of Science of SA; and <strong>Prof Frank Tanser,</strong> Professor of Global Health and Director of Population Health Innovation at the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation</p><p>ASSAf represents the country in the international community of science academies. The Academy mobilises its members – internationally renowned scholars elected by their peers – to provide authoritative advice to government and other stakeholders based on scientifically rigorous analysis of evidence and consensus of diverse experts. In addition, ASSAf also recognises and rewards scholarly achievement and excellence in the application of scientific thinking for the benefit of society.</p><p>New Members are elected each year by the full existing membership. Membership of the Academy is a great honour and is in recognition of scholarly achievement. Members are the core asset of the Academy and give of their time and expertise voluntarily in the service of society.</p><p>SU Vice-Chancellor and Rector Prof Wim de Villiers extended congratulations to the new cohort of scholars inaugurated into ASSAf. “This honour reflects their academic excellence and dedication to societal impact. I am especially proud of our SU academics among them, whose achievements propel our vision to lead as Africa's foremost research-intensive university, inspiring our community and advancing impactful research across South Africa and beyond," De Villiers said.</p><p>Prof Sibusiso Moyo, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies at SU, said it was a huge honour for SU academics to join the ranks of ASSAf. “They all embody the academic excellence and innovative spirit that Stellenbosch University stands for. Their contribution to advancing knowledge in their respective fields and fostering Stellenbosch University's commitment to research excellence, as well and contribution to skills training for Masters and Doctoral candidates, and 'grantship' is acknowledged. I wish them the best as they continue to push the knowledge boundaries beyond 2024," Moyo said.</p><p><strong>ASSAf Young Academy new members</strong></p><p>During the ASSAf Awards Ceremony, the South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS) inaugurated ten new members. Two academics from SU have been welcomed to SAYAS - <strong>Dr Yaseera Ismail</strong> is a Senior Lecturer at SU who specialises in Quantum Information Communication and Processing and <strong>Dr Caitlin Uren</strong> is a lecturer in Human genetics, bioinformatics and pharmacogenetics.</p><p>SAYAS was launched in 2011 to enable South Africa's young scientists to fully participate in local and internationally relevant research and development agendas.</p><p>It provides a national platform where leading young scientists from all disciplines in the country can interact and access international networking and career development opportunities. </p><p>SAYAS members are young scientists below the age of 40, have PhDs and are deemed excellent in their fields of expertise. SAYAS members come from all disciplines including pure and applied sciences, humanities, social sciences and the arts.<br></p><p><br></p> |
