THE DYNAMICSOF BIO SCIENCE
ISSUE 05SCIENCESTARS
4 Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
CO
NT
EN
Ts
FEATURES
5 FOREWORD
Prof. Julian May
8 sCIENCE
Bio Science
10 DST
Bio-Economy Strategy
17 DST
Centre of Excellence
21 scIENCE STARS
ARC Stars
30 ImmunologIST
Dr Tandeka’s interview
33 CSir
Biomanufacturing
40 DST
Budget vote
42 DST
Decoding of Eucalyptus
46 Bio science
InstitutionsTh
e B
io-e
cono
my
Stra
tegy
a
CONTENTSCONTENTS
5Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
Prof. Julian May
theFOREWORD
weeded out undesirable plants, a tasty plant would flourish. When nomads travelled on horseback across the Mongolian Steppes with goat skins of milk tied to their saddle, science transformed milk that would spoil into yoghurt or cheese that lasted longer. Fr. Gregor Mendel’s hybridizing experiments at St Thomas’s Abbey in the nineteenth century pioneered the science of genetics which eventually led to the Green Revolution in the 1960’s. As a result we were able to dramatically increase production and thus our ability to feed the world’s rapidly growing population. Bio-science can now eliminate important nutrient deficiencies through food fortification or by modifying the genetic structure of the things that we eat. Bio-science can also identify opportuni-ties for alternative uses of plant products, reduce crop losses and reduce wastage.This edition of Science Stars introduces the new DST-NRF Centre of Excellence hosted by the Universities of the Western Cape and Pretoria. The Centre is a multi-disciplinary, multi-institutional vir-tual institution involving almost twenty South African and inter-national organisations and more than 80 researchers. This edition also reports on new uses for a South African icon, rooibos, as well as the eucalyptus tree which we often use only as firewood. Enjoy reading about the science of food!
Food is so much part of our lives that we don’t often stop to think about what it is, where it comes from, and who was involved in bringing it to our plates and hands. However without enough food we will weaken and eventually die, and if we eat the wrong food, or too much food, we place ourselves at risk of preventable ailments such as diabetes or hypertension. What food you eat defines who you are, with whom you eat defines your family and friends, and in some cultures, when you eat and when not, signifies adherence to your faith. In addition, there are millions of livelihoods involved in the production, pro-cessing, distribution, preparation and disposal of food, and when food prices increase, families experience hardship and may have to give up other items in order to survive.Science plays a critical role in this food system. Science began to transform our food when the first farmers noticed that if they CoE Director
FOREWORD
A vital basic need
6 Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
ED’S NOTE
Evans Nyasha Manyonga
When I first heard about Bio-technology I got excited. Well, all things scientific excite me but this sounded sophisticated and also simple at the same time. I definitely knew what the ‘technol-ogy’ in Bio-technology meant and stood for, the only hard part was actually understanding what the three letters ‘b-i-o’ stood for. Well, that’s how it all started and my journey of discovery took me to a lot of interesting places and as they usually say, ‘the rest is history’.
So in short Bio-Technology is a combination of Biology and Technology. It covers a wide variety of subjects like Genetics,
Biochemistry, Microbiology, Immunology, Virology, Chemistry and Engineering and is also concerned with many other subjects like Health and Medicine, Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Cropping system and Crop Management, Ecology, Cell Biology, Soil science and Soil Conservation, Bio-statistics, Plant Physiology, Seed Technology etc. Bio-Technology is the use of living things, especially cells and bacteria in industrial process.Fortunately you have the rest of the issue to read and go through and your own journey of discovery will also begin, with your usual suspect and friend in all things scientific, Science Stars. I hope you will enjoy reading this issue and also be motivated to take up Bio-technology subjects. As you will read in one of our profiles, no one knows where life will take us. You might be the next person who will find a cure for AIDS or Cancer. So read on and discover more. As we always say, the careers in Science are simply limitless! So here are yet more options to look at.Finally we are looking forward to the upcoming National Science Week which will be in Bloemfontein at the beginning of next month. We hope to see you there and we are sure it will be a super week. Come by the Science Stars stand and feel free to interact with us. Till the next issue, work hard and take care.
Managing Editor • Evans [email protected]
Graphic Designer • Cinzia Joey Swartz
Project Manager • Renata Williams
Contributing Writer • Unathi Kondile
Chairman • Madambi Rambuda
Sales Executive • James [email protected]
Ambassador • Azwindinni Muronga
Copyright 2014 Roswika Media. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or any means, electronically or mechanically, without prior permission.
Science Stars is published by Roswika Media - a member of Shanduka Black Umbrellas.
31 Brickfield Road,Upper East Side, Unit 9BCape Town
021 447 [email protected]
LetteR FROM
THE EDITORteamScience Stars
Managing Editor
TECHNOLOGY THROUGH SCIENCE
FROM CLASSROOM TO BOARDROOM
From building schools to supporting black entrepreneurs, from making university study possible for disadvantaged students to providing work experience for young graduates, Shanduka Foundation strives to develop South Africa’s human potential.
Through a set of complementary programmes, Shanduka Foundation creates opportunities for educational development, career growth and the acquisition of entrepreneurial capabilities.
• Adopt-a-School Foundation mobilises companies and individuals to adopt disadvantaged schools with the aim of improving the academic, infrastructural, social and security environment in schools.
• The Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust provides bursaries to disadvantaged students and organises vacation work in companies in the Shanduka Group.
• The Shanduka internship programme provides experiential training for selected learners and job seekers within Shanduka Group and across its partner network.
• Shanduka Black Umbrellas nurtures qualifying 100% black owned businesses by providing meaningful access to markets, networks and finance through its small enterprise incubators and online procurement portal.
Thanks to the ongoing support of many partners in business, government and civil society, Shanduka Foundation is making a significant impact in the lives of young South Africans.
To find out more about the work of the foundation and its programmes, visit
www.shanduka.co.za/shanduka-foundation
4050 Shanduka - A4 CSI handbook advert 275x215mm REP.indd 1 2014/02/26 10:17 AM
8 Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
WHAT IS BIO SCIENCE
If breeding strong hunting dogs is your favourite thing to do, a career in bio-science is waiting for you. If you love
studying biology, mathematics and chem-istry at school, rest assured that there is a whole new world waiting for you to dis-cover using biotechnology. If you want to be the first person to create a cure for HIV and make serious money, I have a secret for you, it is bio-technology.What is Bio-technology?Biotechnology is the use of living systems and organisms to develop or make useful products, or any technological application
that uses biological systems, for example using the extracts of the rooibos plant to develop a cure for skin cancer or skin dis-eases in a lab. For years Sangomas/traditional heal-ers have been using bio-technology to produce strong mutis or medicine. Your local traditional healer uses primitive bio-technology to convert plant extracts into useful medicine or muti. Biotechnology has applications in four major industrial areas, health care (medi-cal), crop production and agriculture, non-food (industrial).
Bio-Technology is a research oriented sci-ence, which means biotechnologists spend long hours in the lab using their Biology and Technology knowledge. It covers a wide variety of subjects like Genetics, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Immunology, Virology, Chemistry and Engineering and is also concerned with many other subjects like Health and Medicine, Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Cropping system and Crop Management, Ecology, Cell Biology, Soil science and Soil Conservation, Bio-statistics, Plant Physiology, Seed Technology etc.
BIO-TECHNOLOGY Opening up new possibilities
9Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
BIO-TECHNOLOGY
To pursue a career in biotechnology one
must love doing science experiments,
love solving problems and be prepared to
spend long hours in the lab. The biotech-
nology field can offer a person an oppor-
tunity to create new products that can
change the world.
Bio-technology’s use
Biotechnology uses genetically modified
crops to play a crucial role in helping to
improve the heat-resistance and drought-
tolerance of crops, resistance to certain
pests, diseases, stressful environmental
conditions, resistance to chemical treat-
ments, reduction of spoilage, improv-
ing the nutrient profile of the crop and
addressing the challenges of climate
change, diminishing water and grazing,
and potential loss of biodiversity.
Biotechnology is used to manufacture and
develop new and improved therapeutics
(drugs, vaccines, phyto-medicines and bio-
pharmaceuticals) to address the disease
burden that the world is facing. Modern
bio-technology is being used to manufac-
ture existing medicines relatively easily and
cheaply.
Also impressive is that Bio-technology
can be used to manufacture and maintain
bio-based chemicals, biomaterials and
bio-energy and water and waste. This field
of bio-technology is called industrial bio-
technology and currently various countries
are using this technology to contribute to
and grow their economies.
South Africa’s bio-technology sector is
still small but growing at a rapid rate. The
Department of Science and Technology
(DST) has already developed a strategy that
will help grow the bio-technology sector.
This means that in the near future there
will be lots of job opportunities in the bio-
technology sector. See the bio career page
on page 10 and 11 to see which biotech-
nology career path you would like to follow.
10 Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
WHAT IS BIO SCIENCE
The
Bio
-eco
nom
y S
trate
gy
a
11Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
DST
The
Bio
-eco
nom
y S
trate
gy
a
HEALTH• Vaccines
• Biopharmaceuticals
AGRICULTURE• Crops
INDUSTRY• Biofeuls
• Munical Waste• Remedy Instrustrial
• The strategy involves the development of products and services that have a real-world need in government and industry.• This strategy provides a high-level framework to guide biosciences research and innovation investments, as well as decision-making.• All the relevant sectors need to support and commit to the strategy due to the multisectoral and long-term nature of bio-based developments• Requires guidance and support from the relevant departments and industry sec-tors.
The Bio-economy Strategy is thus not a Department of Science and Technology strat-egy – it is a South African strategy.
THE BIO-ECONOMY STRATEGY
agriculture,forestry & fisheriesDepartment:Agriculture, Forestry and FisheriesREPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries intends to award comprehensive bursaries to qualifying applicants pursuing and/or intending to further their studies in critical scarce skills in the agriculture, forestry and sheries sectors for the 2015 academic year. The bursaries will cover tuition, accommodation, books, meals and monthly allowance. The bursary awards target the previously disadvantaged and impoverished persons from poverty-stricken and deep rural communities.
Notes
1. It is worth noting that certain study elds are only available at certain institutions of higher learning:• B.Sc. Bioresource Engineering (Agricultural Engineering): University of KwaZulu-Natal• Bachelor of Veterinary Science (B.V.Sc.): University of Pretoria• B.Sc. Viticulture and Oenology/Soil Science/Plant Pathology: University of Stellenbosch• B.Sc. Forestry and Wood Science: University of Stellenbosch• B.Sc. Oceanography and Marine Biology: University of Cape Town• B.Sc. Ichthyology specialising in Aquaculture: Rhodes University• National Diploma: Forestry: Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University• National Diploma: Oceanography: Cape Peninsula University of Technology• National Diploma: Fisheries Resource Management: Cape Peninsula University of Technology
2. Applicants must be South African citizens.3. Applicants must complete relevant bursary application forms available online at: www.daff.gov.za (Click the following: Branches, Food Security
and Agrarian Reform, then Sector Education and Training and then Careers).4. Successful candidates will be informed from 15 January 2015, after the National Bursary Committee has nalised the selection process. If you
do not hear from us by the end of January 2015, consider your application to be unsuccessful.5. All completed bursary application forms together with certi ed copies of ID and certi cates/performance results should be sent to the following
address:
Fields of studies Minimum requirements(National Senior Certi cate)
1. B.Sc. Bioresource Engineering (Agricultural Engineering)2. Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc.)
Mathematics and Physical Science 6 (70-79)
3. B.Sc. Viticulture and Oenology/ Soil Science/Plant Pathology4. B.Sc. Food Science5. B.Sc. Plant Pathology6. B.Sc. Agric Soil Science7. B.Sc. Agric Agronomy8. B.Sc. Forestry and Wood Science9. B.Sc. Geo-informatics10. B.Sc. Marine Biology11. B.Sc. Oceanography and Marine Biology12. B.Sc. Ichthyology specialising in Aquaculture
Mathematics and Physical Science 5 (60-69)
13. National Diploma: Food Technology14. National Diploma: Forestry15. National Diploma: Fisheries Resource Management16. National Diploma: Oceanography
Mathematics and Physical Science 4 (50-59)
16. Postgraduate studies (B.Tech, B.Sc. Hons, M. Tech., M.Sc., D.Tech. and Ph.D.) in different agriculture, forestry and sheries study elds linked to DAFF priority research projects.
The Director: Ms Amanda Shokane For further enquiries please contact:
Directorate: Sector Education and TrainingDepartment of Agriculture, Forestry and FisheriesPrivate Bag X250 PRETORIA 0001
Mr Looksharp Makaringi: 012 319 7923Ms Boitumelo Maleka: 012 319 7024Mr Frans Setsiba: 012 319 7848
NB. (i) The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries reserves the right to determine the total number of bursary allocations for the academic year based on the total budget available.
(ii) The National Bursary Committee will make use of the Bursary Scheme’s 14-point system to allocate points to shortlisted applicants.(iii) The Bursary Scheme of the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries is in ful lment of the sector strategic objective of elimination
of skewed participation in the agriculture, forestry and sheries sectors.
Closing date for all applications: 30 September 2014
THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY AND FISHERIES BURSARY AWARDS FOR 2015
People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
13Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
FEATURECAREER
CAREERS IN BIO-TECHNOLOGY
One for the future
Bio-Technology is a research oriented
science, which means most of the
work in Bio-Technology is based on
research. Bio-Technology is a combina-
tion of Biology and Technology. It covers
a wide variety of subjects like Genetics,
Biochemistry, Microbiology, Immunology,
Virology, Chemistry and Engineering and
is also concerned with many other sub-
jects like Health and Medicine, Agriculture
and Animal Husbandry, Cropping system
and Crop Management, Ecology, Cell
Biology, Soil science and Soil Conservation,
Bio-statistics, Plant Physiology, Seed
Technology etc. Bio-Technology is the use
of living things, especially cells and bacte-
ria in industrial process.
We have compiled a number of prominent
careers in the Bio-Technology field.
Agricultural Bio-TechnologistThis area of Bio-Technology focuses on
enhancing and changing the genetic
makeup of plants. A new gene can be
introduced in a plant for a specific pur-
pose, e.g to resist certain diseases.
What do I need to be an agricultural biotechnologist?Characteristics: Natural curiosity, methodi-cal and precise by nature.Important school subjects: Biology, Mathematics, Physical Science.Qualifications MSc – Natural Sciences/Biological and
Life Sciences/Biotechnology/Microbiology/
Molecular and Cell Biology or similar, M
Tech (Biotechnology).
Where can I get a job as an agricul-tural biotechnologist?Agricultural research institutes, many
of which are linked to the Agricultural
Research Council (ARC), universities and
commercial companies such as Mondi and
Sappi.
Related careersPlant Pathologist, Molecular
Biotechnologist, Plant Molecular Biologist,
Plant Breeder, Agricultural Scientist.
The EnzymologistSmoking chimneys and chemical waste
streams are side effects of modern living
standards. Can we find more environmen-
tally friendly alternatives from Mother
Nature in the form of enzymes? Enzymes, which are a type of protein that
speed up biological reactions (catalysts),
are found in every living thing (plants,
animals, humans, insects and microbes).
Enzymes are made in the cells, according
to their specific genetic recipe. To work, an
enzyme needs a very specific target called
a “substrate” with which it matches like a
key fitting into a lock. Like other catalysts,
an enzyme does its job without being used
up or destroyed, but being a protein, it is
completely bio-degradable.
What do I need to become an enzymolo-
gist?
Characteristics: Natural curiosity about all
living things, good observation and analyti-
cal skills, patience.
Important school subjects: Mathematics,
Biology, Physical Science.
Relevant training and qualification: B Tech - Biotechnology, M Tech –
Biotechnology; BSc – Biochemistry/Natural,
Sciences/Biological and Life Sciences/
Biotechnology/Microbiology/Molecular
and Cell Biology/Chemical and Biological
Sciences or similar
Where can I find a job as an enzymolo-gist?Pharmaceutical, food, brewing and agro-
chemical industries, research organisations,
universities, medical research institutes,
vaccine producing companies.
14 Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
CAREER
Related careers:Biochemist, Molecular Biologist, Molecular
Geneticist, Microbiologist, Cell Biologist,
Bioprocess Engineer
Bio-ChemistryBiochemistry is about trying to understand
the chemical processes that happen in
living cells that are needed for the cell
to survive, reproduce, and do its “job”. For
example, the job of red blood cells is to
make haemoglobin which carries oxygen
around the body. To do all this, a cell
needs DNA.
Bio-Chemists job is to find new ways to
treat and cure medical conditions and dis-
eases by using his knowledge about what
happens within the building blocks of
cells. Bio-Chemists for example can con-
clude through research that some people
are less likely to get cancer because their
“detox” genes code for the “best” enzymes
to remove toxins caused by smoking and
drinking.
What do I need to be a medical bio-chemist?Characteristics: Perseverance, commitment,
analytical mind, meticulous nature.
Important school subjects: Mathematics,
Biology, Physical Science.
Qualifications: BSc – Biochemistry/
Natural Sciences/ Biological and Life
Sciences/ Biotechnology/ Microbiology/
Molecular and Cell Biology/Human Life
Sciences/ Bio-organic Chemistry/Chemical,
Molecular and Cellular Sciences.
Where can I get a job as a medical biochemist?Mostly research institutions, including
universities and medical research groups
such as the Medical Research Council
(MRC), biotechnology companies, some
multinational pharmaceutical companies.
Related careers:Clinical Biochemist, Chemical Pathologist,
Medical Scientist.
Plant BreederPlant Breeders develop new, improved
types of plants. A Plant Breeder can pro-
duce a type of maize that produces more
and better cobs, cope better with stress
and can resist diseases that infect the
maize.
Then can do this by selecting maize plants
with these characteristics and then breed
them. This results in the genetic “recipe” of
the plants being changed and improved.
Once these “hybrids” have been fully test-
ed, which can take many years, they are
sold to farmers.
Most plant breeders specialise in one crop
only. To do this job they have to under-
stand the science behind plant breeding,
the growing conditions of maize in South
Africa, the agricultural market and the
needs of those who use or eat the maize.
They also have to predict how these factors
will change in the next ten years. What do I need to be a plant breeder?Characteristics: Passion for working out-
doors; patience, as it can take five to seven
years before a hybrid is ready to be sold; an
ability to work systematically, independently
and in teams
Important school subjects: Biology,
Mathematics, Physical Science
Qualifications: BSc – Natural Sciences/Biological and Life
Sciences/Microbiology/Molecular and Cell
Biology/Agriculture or similar.
Where can I get a job as a plant breed-er?Private, commercial seed companies (inter-
national and local) such as Monsanto,
Pannar, Pioneer, Syngenta and various
smaller companies, public research insti-
tutes and universities.
Related careers: Plant Pathologist, Plant
Geneticist, Plant Biotechnologist, Genomics.
This is an additional list of other career options:
• Agricultural Biotechnologist
• Bio-informaticist
• Biological Forensic Analyst
• Bioprocess Engineer
• Biosafety Regulator
• Conservation Geneticist
• Environmental Biotechnologist
• Enzymologist
• Fermentation Scientist
• Human Geneticist
• Immunologist
• Medical Biochemist
• Microbiologist
• Patent Attorney
• Plant Breeder
• Plant Molecular Biologist
• Plant Pathologist
• Technical Sales Representative
• Veterinary Virologist
SCIENCE STARSBUILDING LEGENDS
Science Stars is supported by:• The Department of Science and Technology • CSIR• University of Stellenbosch• UCT• SANRAL•• Shanduka Foundation • Old mutual • NSFAS• UJ• Engen• Scifest Africa• Shanduka black umbrellas•• SAASTA• TCTA
Science Stars is distributed to all 9South African provinces by ELTINSEF.
021 839 [email protected]
/sciencestars.faceb.co.za@ScienceStars2
15Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
SCIENCE STARSBUILDING LEGENDS
Science Stars is supported by:• The Department of Science and Technology • CSIR• University of Stellenbosch• UCT• SANRAL•• Shanduka Foundation • Old mutual • NSFAS• UJ• Engen• Scifest Africa• Shanduka black umbrellas•• SAASTA• TCTA
Science Stars is distributed to all 9South African provinces by ELTINSEF.
021 839 [email protected]
/sciencestars.faceb.co.za@ScienceStars2
16 Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
SCIENCE IN PRACTICE
PROF JULIAN MAY
Prof Julian May is based at the
University Of Western Cape (UWC).
He obtained his doctoral degree in
Development Studies at The University
of the KwaZulu-Natal.. He is a Research
Associate at the Brooks World Poverty
Institute, the International Food Policy
Research Institute, the Department of
Social Policy, Oxford University and the
South African Labour and Development
Research Unit, University of Cape Town.
Between 1994 and 1998, Prof. May led the
Poverty and Inequality Report, which was
the first review of South Africa’s poverty
reduction policies after the Apartheid
era. The Professor has also worked in a
number of other countries. He worked on
an evaluation of the World Bank’s social
fund program in Jamaica, Nicaragua,
Zambia and Malawi, on bio-diversity stud-
ies in Mozambique and Namibia, poverty
reduction strategy in Lesotho, Zambia and
Uganda, and on monitoring and evaluation
in Mauritius, Maldives, Namibia, Swaziland
and Zimbabwe.
He was also the principal researcher for
the KwaZulu-Natal Income Dynamics
Survey (KIDS), a ten year panel study of
poverty dynamics. May has edited 3 books,
published over 60 papers in books and
academic journals, and produced more
than 120 working papers, research reports
and other publications. His research
interests are poverty and inequality, agrar-
ian reform, and impact assessment meth-
odologies.
Science Stars had the brilliant opportunity
of sitting down with Prof. May. We asked
him a few questions. Read on and enjoy:
Who has been your biggest inspiration in all things scientific?
Depends what you mean by science. If
systematic knowledge building, then my
first choice is Desiderius Erasmus (1466 –
1536), of economics (my discipline) then
John Maynard Keynes, and if mathematics,
then Kurt Gödel.
What do you think about the state of Maths and Science in South Africa at the moment?
We face a serious crisis. It seems that
maths is feared by many South Africans,
rather than something that is to be
enjoyed and something that helps. We
are falling behind countries that are
much poorer than us, as well as those
with whom we will be competing with for
resources and markets. It is critical that
we support initiatives to improve maths
learning and usage in South Africa.
What is your biggest mathematic or scientific regret?Not paying attention during my algebra
classes in my matric year. It took me years
to fill in the gaps in my knowledge.
If you were not actively involved in science and mathematics what would you be doing?I might be a chef in a restaurant as I enjoy
cooking, or perhaps a photographer.
What are your thoughts on the poten-tial of Bio-Science in SA?There is immense potential for bio-science
in South Africa, but we cannot achieve its
potential unless we first address issues of
inequality, injustice and exclusion.
What is your favourite quote?I have many, but this is a current favourite:
“If you think education is expensive, try
ignorance.” (Derek Bok)
Who is the best mathematician or sci-entist of all time in your view?
Once again I can think of many, but a
current favourite is Tim Berners-Lee, the
inventor of the World Wide Web. He made
continuous learning easily available for
most people.
What can you say to our aspiring future scientists and mathematicians?
Learning is a life-long experience, requiring
serious commitment and energy. Only while
you are at school or in college or university
will you have the opportunity to devote
your full attention to this activity. Don’t
squander this chance: the older person that
you will eventually become will always be
grateful for the knowledge that you build
during this time.
Prof Julian May
A strong academic
17Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
DST - NRF CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE IN
FOOD SECURITY
“Hunger is not a natural phenomenon. It is a man-made trag-
edy. People do not go hungry because there is not enough food
to eat. They go hungry because the system which delivers food
from the fields to our plates is broken.”
CompositionThe DST - NRF Centre of Excellence in Food Security
(COE) is a virtual centre hosted by the Universities of the
Western Cape and co-hosted by the University of Pretoria.
Researchers in the Centre are drawn from Universities of
Cape Town, Fort Hare, Johannesburg, Nelson Mandela, North
West, Stellenbosch University, Venda, Tshwane University of
Technology, the Agricultural Research Council and the Water
Research Council. Our international partners are the Australian
National University, City University of New York, Institute of
Development Studies, International Food Policy Research
Institute, Michigan State University and Missouri University.
Centre DirectorThe CoE Director Prof. Julian May works on poverty reduction
including land reform, social grants, information technology
and urban agriculture in southern and East Africa. He formerly
held the South African Research Chair in Applied Poverty
Impact Assessment.
Prof. Sheryl Hendriks, the University of Pretoria node head,
works on household food security measurement, agricul-
tural growth and food policy analysis. She is a member of
the Committee on World Food Security’s High Level Panel of
Experts.
Food security and nutrition are imperative for human survival
with dignity. Achieving food security must take into account
economic vitality, social justice, human and environmental
health.
Goals and aspirationsThe COE goal is to undertake research, capacity building
and dissemination activities to promote a sustainable
food system that brings about food security for poor, vul-
nerable and marginal populations.
Their research goes across different focus areas and
involves using innovative methodologies for high-impact
science through understanding and taking action on com-
plex societal problems. We adopt a partnership approach
to the organisation of our activities by building purposive
strategic relationships for the co-design and co-ownership
of research problems, methodologies and solutions.
Through a transformative agenda, we provide leadership,
evidence for decision making and critique of policies
and programmes aimed at reducing food insecurity. Our
comprehensive and systems approach to development
recognises the underlying causes of food insecurity such
as poverty, unemployment and inequality.
OrganisationTheir work is carried out in four different areas
• Food Creation
Production, processing and preservation.
• Food Distribution
Markets, livelihoods and value chains
• Food Consumption
Health, nutrition, choice and behaviour
• Food Governance
Safety, standards, policy and rights
Ensuring a stable future
FEATUREDST
19Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
FEATUREDST
REWARDING EXCELLENCE
Grade 11 and 12 pupils excel in National Science Olympiad
Four South African grade 12 pupils
will attend the 2014 London
International Youth Science Forum,
and two grade 11 pupils will participate
in the Australian National Youth Science
Forum after coming out tops in the
National Science Olympiad.
Southern Africa’s top young science
performers in 2014 were honoured at a
gala event at Emperors Palace on 10 July
2014. The top achievers were drawn from
schools in the southern African region,
including Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Namibia and
South Africa.
The Olympiad aims to contribute towards
excellence in science among learners and
to encourage them to take up careers in
science, engineering and technology. Just
under 30 000 learners in grades 10 to 12
wrote either the Physical Sciences or Life
Science paper on 3 March 2014. Winners
in different categories received prizes such
as laptops, iPads, e-bookreaders and more
at the awards event. The top-performing
schools received science equipment for
their laboratories.
The event in 2014 also celebrated 50
years of the competition. Past Science
Olympiad winners were also honoured,
including the likes of Prof. Nithaya Chetty,
Group Executive for Astronomy at the
National Research Foundation, Mteto
Nyati, Microsoft’s GM of emerging regions
in Africa and the Middle East, and award-
winning poet Imraan Coovadia.
Delivering the keynote address Minister
of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor,
said: “The Olympiad is much more than a
science and biology exam competition. It’s
the jewel in the crown of our Youth into
Science Strategy, which is all about identi-
fying and nurturing talent. The Olympiad
also identifies talent. It identifies talent
that teachers have nurtured in schools
across the length and breadth of the coun-
try.”
The Minister added that the country needed
more young scientists to improve the qual-
ity of life of all citizens, especially those in
rural areas.
“Many South African inventors have pro-
duced products that improve the quality
of life of rural people in South Africa and
elsewhere in Africa,” said Minister Pandor,
citing solar power projects like the turbo-
spiral solar heater and the sun-catcher
solar cooker.
Hamandishe Mathivha and Danielle Vellema
Ms Grace Naledi Mandisa Pandor
20 Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
DST
Congratulating winners of the 50th
National Science Olympiad, the Minister
said government was increasing invest-
ment in research and development, and
modernising infrastructure devoted to sci-
ence and technology.
The Minister encouraged the winners to
add to the length of the list of inventions
for which South Africa was known.
“South African scientists have been able
to exploit both geographic and knowledge
advantages. We are internationally com-
petitive and recognised in Astronomy. As
a country rich in human fossil remains, we
are also a leading country in palaeontol-
ogy and related sciences,” she said.
“There is much to be proud of in South
African science. We boast a long list of
impressive inventions – from early tools
for collecting, cutting up and storing
food, to traditional medicines, horse-
drawn vehicles, medical apparatus, attack
helicopters, vuvuzela horns and articu-
lated dump trucks. We are particularly
renowned for breakthroughs in the medi-
cal field, which include heart transplant
procedures and the development of com-
puter axial tomography, which led to break-
throughs in X-ray scanning.”
Hamandishe Mathivha of Mbilwi Secondary
School in Limpopo and Danielle Vellema of
Outeniqua High School in George, Western
Cape will travel to Australia in 2015 for the
Science Focus Week.
Best overall marks in Physical Science:
Thomas Orton of Bishops High School,
Cape Town. Ishaaq Lakhi of Raisethorpe
Secondary School in KwaZulu-Natal won
Best overall marks in Life Sciences and
Rebecca Rogers Reddam House, Western
Cape top girl Learner in Life Sciences.
Winners:Best overall marks in Physical Sciences:
Thomas Orton of Bishops High School in
Cape Town.
Best overall marks in Life Sciences: Ishaaq
Lakhi of Raisethorpe Secondary School in
KwaZulu-Natal.
Best marks in Physical Sciences in Grade
11: Bataung Mohapi, African Leadership
Academy, Gauteng.
Top girl learner in Life Sciences: Rebecca
Rogers, Reddam House Atlantic Seaboard,
Western Cape.
Two learners have been selected to attend
a Science Focus Week in Australia in
January 2015:
Hamandishe Mathivha of Mbilwi Secondary
School, Limpopo.
Danielle Vellema of Outeniqua High School
in George, Western Cape.
Dr. Vuyane Mhlomi and Ms Grace Naledi Mandisa Pandor
Thomas Orton, Ishaaq Lakhi and Rebecca Rogers
21Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
ARC
The ARC has a very vibrant and
strong graduate development
programme. Science Stars inter-
viewed two students who have been part
of this programme, Nokuthula Innocentia
Ramatsoma and Cornelius Mahlanza.
How did you hear about the ARC Professional and graduates develop-ment programme?I came to the ARC as a volunteer for my
B-Tech project. To get my degree I was
required to volunteer at Agricultural
Research Council, Irene. Besides not get-
ting an income I was not discouraged. I
did as required to learn more on agricul-
ture science. Once I completed my degree,
I had an interest in pursuing my studies
to postgraduate level; being at ARC infor-
mation about Professional and graduates
Development Programme was readily
accessible. Due to my commitment and
professionalism, the Agricultural Research
Council committed to fund me for my
Masters project.
What is your area of expertise?Conducting research under Animal
Breeding and Genetics, with a particular
focus on dairy cattle genetic improvement.
Through developing strategies to improve
desirable and economically important
traits (such as milk production, live weight
etc. in dairy cattle).
What has been the greatest benefit of joining this programme?Joining the programme has helped me
gain the necessary knowledge and skills
with regard to scientific research. I have
been involved in various projects attended
workshops, conferences, made scientific
publication and presentations. The big-
gest benefit was the opportunity I got to
pursue my studies and acquire my master’s
degree.
Can you tell us a bit about your back-ground?I am from Limpopo province and aged
26. I attended an agricultural high school
and from there I decided to follow a
career in agriculture. I acquired a diploma
and degree in Agriculture at Tshwane
University of Technology. Currently I am
at the final stage of my masters and plan
to proceed with PhD studies, as soon as I
graduate for my master’s degree.
How has this programme assisted your career development?When joining the programme I lacked
knowledge in terms of scientific research.
I have acquired vast knowledge in how to
conduct research projects, write scientific
publications and make presentations. The
programme has also trained me on how to
collect, edit and analyse data.
What would you like to say to ARC about the programme?My studies would have never been a
success without the financial aid from
the Agricultural Research Council (ARC)
Professional Development Programme.
Thank you, thank you; my outmost
gratitude goes to you for giving me
the opportunity to explore the greatest
experience in research. If it wasn’t for
Agricultural Research Council (ARC) for
the Professional Development Programme
with the help from my mentor Dr CB
Banga and the Animal Breeding and
Genetics staff; I would not be having any
scientific publications, knowledge on how
to make scientific presentations, analyse
and interpret data.
What are your future plans?I see myself well established in my
career with a PhD. Working in agricultural
research. Helping other students develop
their careers. Possibly emerging into a
world class scientific researcher.
Where do you see yourself in 2yrs time?In 2yrs time I hope to have enrolled for
my PhD studies. Attained many publica-
tions because presently I have published
one article in a peer-reviewed journal and
I am about to publish another article and
still have other articles awaiting for pub-
lications. I’m anticipating making an inter-
national presentation and training.
What can you say to other people about the ARC graduate programme?The Professional Development Programme
is not only a programme that will assist
in your studies but it will also develop
your career in the field of agriculture. The
programme also gives the platform to be
recognised WORLDWIDE as you will be
conducting your research in one of the top
research councils (ARC).
ARC PROFESSIONAL AND GRADUATES DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMENurturing our future lifeblood
Ramatsoma Nokuthula
22 Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
ARC
Cornelius Mahlanza
How did you hear about the ARC Professional and graduates develop-ment programme?I visited one of the institutes
What is your area of expertise?Microbiology and biochemistry.
What has been the greatest benefit of joining this programme?Exposure to the work environment.
Can you tell us a bit about your back-ground?I have a Master’s degree in biochemistry.
How has this programme assisted your career development
This programme gave me a head start into
my career while I was still studying.
What would you like to say to ARC about the programme?The programme is relevant as it addresses
the current needs for more qualified aca-
demics to assist ARC achieve its vision.
What are your future plans?Completing my PhD.
Where do you see yourself in two years time?Embarking on a postdoc.
What can you say to other people about the ARC graduate programme?It’s a good platform for anyone that has an
interest in agricultural academic research
Cornelius Mahlanza
www.maties.com
Are you creative and eager to explore? So is Stellenbosch University.
Do you see the world as your classroom and your future as yours to shape?
Stellenbosch University does. Are you driven to make a difference?
Then Stellenbosch is the place for you.
Bran
ding |
www
.gstud
io.co
.zaYOU UNLIMITED
StellenboschUniversity.What setsus apart?
24 Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
ARC
25Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
ARC
Seokedzi Mothokwa is just one of the 179 learners that SANRAL’s
scholarships from 2012-2013 is helping to realize his dreams
of doing well and going on to study at university.
It’s an investment for us, for him and for our country. Who knows what he may become – but we know
that better education means more opportunities, and that means a better
nation for us all.
At my math and science. And it paid off. SANRAL’s scholarship
programme is helping me to pay for my schooling to
pave the way for my success.
“
”
www.sanral.co.za | 0800 SANRAL (726 725)
3527
3527 BENEFICIARY AD - Science Stars.indd 1 2014/08/12 3:13 PM
GET ALL THE ANSWERS AT THESE EXCITING EVENTS AT UJ
Choose the right subjects in Gr 9Learn well in Gr 10Earn the marks you need in Gr 11Apply on time in Gr 12Register to become a UJ student once accepted to UJ
Individuals, parents, teachers and all groups are welcome – proof of your booking must be presented on entrance.
Campus tours will take place on the last Friday of every month, unless there is a public holiday and must also be booked on future.uj.mobi.
Please look out for more information in the press and online regarding UJ’s winter schools and other helpful initiatives aimed at keeping you CLEAR about your future!
From 2014 the UJ OPEN DAY format will be changing to give you, the learner, a valuable experience with us. Instead of one large OPEN DAY, we have put together a calendar filled with smaller focused interactions to offer you the best guidance for your future.
* Please note these dates may be subject to change.
DATE EVENT
23 April 2014 Mini Open Day – Grade 12
9 May 2014 Mini Open Day – Grade 12
14 May 2014 Mini Open Day – Grade 12
16 May 2014 Mini Open Day – Grade 12
4 June 2014 Mini Open Day – Grade 12
23 June 2014 Subject Choice Seminars – Grade 9
24 June 2014 Subject Choice Seminars – Grade 9
30 July 2014 Mini Open Day – Grade 12
6 August 2014 Mini Open Day – Grade 12
10 September 2014 Mini Open Day – Grade 11
17 October 2014 Mini Open Day – Grade 11
Booking is essential, so book today by visiting future.uj.mobi either on your phone or PC or click on the My Future UJ Learner Portal Banner on www.uj.ac.za. If you have problems booking please email [email protected] or call 011 559 6372.
SMS the keyword ODays to 45813 for any further info on any of these events.** Standard sms rates apply.
106838 UJ A4.indd 1 2014/02/18 12:48 PM
4
3
2
1
SCIENCE NEWS
Professor Azwinndini Muronga is the winner of this year’s NSTF-BHPBilliton Award for his outstanding contribution toscience, engineering and technology innovationthrough science communication for publicawareness over the last five years. The award issponsored by SAASTA.
Ms Zanele Magwaza-Msibi hasbeen appointed as the Deputy Minister ofScience and Technology (DST)
Did you know that alcohol decreases the
level ofsex hormone testosterone in men, but
increases it in women.
Puma Biotech announced that a Phase III clinical trial of its experimental drug blocked the return of breast cancer in some women. Shares of the small development biotech firm more than tripled on Wednesday morningafter the news — and created a new billionaire inthe process.
W MEN IN
SCIENCE
Women In Science Awards will be held on the 15 of August 2014
30 Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
Science Stars interviewed Research
fellow Dr Tandeka Magcwebeba
from Stellenbosch University. Dr
Magcwebeba works in Bio-Chemistry
which is a very interesting area of study.
Dr Magcwebeba was named after the first
female doctor in Queenstown, Eastern
Cape. “She was the doctor who took care
of my mother while she was pregnant with
me, after I was born the doctor asked my
parents to make sure I get educated and
the sad part is that two years after nam-
ing me Tandeka she passed away. In later
years my parents kept reminding me that
DR Tandeka wanted me to study and they
even exaggerated it and said she wanted
me to be a doctor.”
Here are some interesting questions and
answers between Science Stars and Dr
Magcwebeba . This is one inspirational
story and at SS we are sure it will moti-
vate you all our young readers. Can you tell us more about your upbringing?
I grew up in the remote area of Ezweleni
Zone 1, Queenstown, Eastern Cape. I start-
ed my primary schooling at Nolwabo and
also studied at Empendulo primary school.
I started school at the age of five because
my mother was a teacher and didn’t have
a nanny to look after me so she decided to
send me to school so the teachers would
look after me. I was a top student in pri-
mary school.
This shocked my parents because they
did not think I would excel in school as I
started school at a very young age. They
had even told the teachers that it would
be ok if I failed or repeated classes but
the fact that they didn’t think I would pass
made me ambitious and I worked hard and
passed, and not only did I just pass, I was
the best student in my class. The average
schooling starting age during my time was
(7) so the teachers used to hide me when
school inspectors would come to visit
the school, because they didn’t want the
inspectors to know that I was underage.
Can you tell us more about your high school?I went to a model C high school and fit-
ting in was a big challenge because of the
language barrier. I came from a very Xhosa
school and I was not fluent in English, in
high school I initially wanted to study his-
tory so that I could be a lawyer but after
discovering that I was more analytical
and loved solving problems I grew to love
maths and science and I ended up study-
ing science and maths instead of history.
Can you tell us more about your matric year?I was very playful in grade 12, and I think
it was partly because I started school early
and this made me more playful, I did not
do well in matric so I got a conditional
exemption. This meant I was restricted on
what degrees to study and the worst part
was that my parents still wanted me to be
a Doctor with my low marks. All the major
universities in SA turned me down and I
had to change my career. My dad’s friend
said that if I applied to study at UWC
they would accept me with my low marks
because my maths marks where very good,
when I got to UWC I read the words bio-
chemistry on the notice board and that
fascinated me. The white coat also got me
excited me because I used to see Brooke
from ‘The bold and beautiful’ wearing it
and looking smart.
How was your University life after-
DR TANDEKA
IMMUNOLOGIST TURNS TO BIO-CHEMISTRY
Rooibos is more than tea
31Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
wards?At UWC I studied a general BSC, because
of lack of career information I just went for
subjects that I liked, after I graduated my
family expected me to work but my father
advised me to pursue an honours degree,
but just like in high school I didn’t do well
in my final year and I had to change from
majoring in Bio-Chemistry to physiology, I
then took Bio-Chemistry as a minor.
When I was doing my under-graduate
degree I had no clear idea of what I was
going to work as, so I was just studying
without a plan, I went from an under-
graduate degree to honours without
knowing what I was going to be employed
as. I did my honours in medical biology.
My honours research project focused on
people with defunct immune systems,
like HIV positive people and pregnant
women, for my Masters we used technics
from micro biology and bio-chemistry
like “pcr” to study how contaminated river water affected people with compromised
immune systems.
My Masters research made me very curious
and I started thinking about my career and
started planning my future.
After my masters I ended up at the MRC,
this is where I started growing and gain-
ing confidence because I was using top
facilities to implement what I learnt at
UWC, MRC shaped my goal and how to
approach things.
At MRC I started working on the famous
rooibos research. MRC exposed me to a
whole different world, I turned into a pro-
fessional scientist at MRC, and did my doc-
torate in Bio-Chemistry at the university of
Stellenbosch.
For my PHD I used the Bio-Chemistry
technic and Stellenbosch gave me an
opportunity to be around bio chemists, so
I became an immunologist in a bio chem-
istry field.Tell us about the rooibos story?While I was growing up I only knew
rooibos as a tea not a plant, but after
my Masters MRC employed me because
I had a background in immunology and
they wanted me to research how rooibos
extracts could prevent cancer, at first I was
shocked to see that something we used at
home could be used to treat cancer and be
researched by scientist in a lab.
The rooibos research was very interesting,
it made me fall in love with bio chemistry,
for my PHD we developed a model to see
how plants can cure diseases and I now
see myself continuing being a researcher
for a very long time.
I strongly think that people must take
women who are studying science and
maths seriously and support them.
What would you be if you were not a scientist?An actress in Generations, probably playing
Mawande.
Your other talents?
I can cook Mphokoqo very well.
Tell us about your typical day?I go to the lab in the morning , run experi-
ments, read research articles, discover new
problems and try to solve them.
DR TANDEKA
Dr Tandeka Magcwebeba
CSIR BURSARY
2015
PROGRAMME
• PleasenotethatthebursaryprogrammeisopentostudentsstudyingatSouthAfricanuniversitiesinallprovinces.
• Shouldyounotbecontactedwithinonemonthoftheclosingdate,pleaseconsideryourapplicationunsuccessful.
Closing date: 15 September 2014Should you experience any problems in submitting your application, please contact the CSIR Recruitment Centre at [email protected]. Please do not submit your application to this mailbox.
To apply for a bursary go to http://www.csir.co.za/recruitment/bursary.php To request a manual application form email [email protected]
The CSIR is a responsible employer; we have put measures in place to ensure that equity is implemented such that it best serves the interests of the organisation and South Africa as a whole. Preference will be given to applicants from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and people living with disabilities. This speaks to the CSIR’s commitment to the Employment Equity Act of 1998.
By applying for this bursary at the CSIR, the applicant understands, consents and agrees that the CSIR may solicit a credit and criminal report from a registered credit bureau and/or SAPS (in relation to positions that require trust and honesty and/or entail the handling of cash or finances) and may also verify the applicant’s educational qualifications and employment history. The CSIR reserves the right not to appoint if a suitable candidate is not identified.
TheCSIRinvitesapplicationsfromstudentswishingtoregisterforundergraduate(alllevels)andHonoursstudiesforthe2015academicyearinthefollowingoperatingunitsandfields:
activate your career
CALL FOR APPLICATIONSThe CSIR is pleased to announce a comprehensive bursary programme that is aimed at providing support for talented students in selected fields of science, engineering and technology (SET). The bursaries are designed to be especially attractive to those students that are considering a career in research, with a value that will comprehensively cover all the normal costs associated with university studies, such as registration, tuition, books, accommodation, meals, laptop, etc. A generous living expenses allowance is an additional part of the package, to assist all selected students with incidental costs. Both academic merit and financial need will be considered during the selection process, as well as the imperative to increase the participation of women and black people in SET.
The CSIR invites applications from students wishing to register for undergraduate (all levels) and honours studies for the 2015 academic year in the following operating units and fields:
CLO
SIN
GD
ATE
:15
SEPT
EMBE
R20
14
www.csir.co.za
BSc/BEng undergraduate studies in the built environment fields:•Civil •Architecture•Geo Information Systems(GIS)•Construction Management•Mathematics •Oceanography•Mechatronics•Mechanical
BSc/BEng undergraduate and postgrad-uate studies in the defence and security fields:•Electronic•Electrical (light current)•Mechanical•Aeronautical• Industrial •Computer Science •Computer Engineering•Applied Mathematics and Physics•Chemistry •Biomedical Engineering
BSc/BEng undergraduate and postgraduate studies in the information and communication technologies fields:•Electronic •Software •Computer Engineering•Computer Science•Artificial Intelligence• Information Systems•Computational Linguistics• Information Technology•Remote Sensing
Areas of Interest include: Speech analytics (audio and text), Wireless technologies, High Performance computing, Hybrid broadcasting and broadband technologies, Software devel-opment, Mobile applications, Data Science and Visualisation, Sensor Networks
BSc/BEng undergraduate studies in the information security fields:•Applied Mathematics (physics) (first year)•Mechanical Engineering (first year)
•Computer Science (third or fourth year)•Computer Engineering (third or fourth year)
BSc/BEng undergraduate studies in the natural resources and the environmental sciences fields:•Chemical Engineering (BTech or BEng) (fourth
year)•Meteorology/ Climatology (Applied Math-
ematics/ Physics/ Mathematical Statistics provided with interest in Climatology & the environmental sciences) (third year)
•Chemistry (fourth year)
BSc/BEng postgraduate studies in the natural resources and the environmental sciences fields:•Chemistry •Meteorology/Climatology (Applied
Mathematics/ Physics/ Mathematical Statistics provided with interest in Climatology & the environmental sciences)
•Geography and Environmental Management with a focus on Waste management
Requirements:•A South African citizen •Planned enrolment at a South African university
in 2014 •An average of 65% for the current academic year
Your application must include: •A copy of your Identity Document• A copy of your CV • Latest transcripts (academic results).
33Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
CSIR BURSARY
2015
PROGRAMME
• PleasenotethatthebursaryprogrammeisopentostudentsstudyingatSouthAfricanuniversitiesinallprovinces.
• Shouldyounotbecontactedwithinonemonthoftheclosingdate,pleaseconsideryourapplicationunsuccessful.
Closing date: 15 September 2014Should you experience any problems in submitting your application, please contact the CSIR Recruitment Centre at [email protected]. Please do not submit your application to this mailbox.
To apply for a bursary go to http://www.csir.co.za/recruitment/bursary.php To request a manual application form email [email protected]
The CSIR is a responsible employer; we have put measures in place to ensure that equity is implemented such that it best serves the interests of the organisation and South Africa as a whole. Preference will be given to applicants from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and people living with disabilities. This speaks to the CSIR’s commitment to the Employment Equity Act of 1998.
By applying for this bursary at the CSIR, the applicant understands, consents and agrees that the CSIR may solicit a credit and criminal report from a registered credit bureau and/or SAPS (in relation to positions that require trust and honesty and/or entail the handling of cash or finances) and may also verify the applicant’s educational qualifications and employment history. The CSIR reserves the right not to appoint if a suitable candidate is not identified.
TheCSIRinvitesapplicationsfromstudentswishingtoregisterforundergraduate(alllevels)andHonoursstudiesforthe2015academicyearinthefollowingoperatingunitsandfields:
activate your career
CALL FOR APPLICATIONSThe CSIR is pleased to announce a comprehensive bursary programme that is aimed at providing support for talented students in selected fields of science, engineering and technology (SET). The bursaries are designed to be especially attractive to those students that are considering a career in research, with a value that will comprehensively cover all the normal costs associated with university studies, such as registration, tuition, books, accommodation, meals, laptop, etc. A generous living expenses allowance is an additional part of the package, to assist all selected students with incidental costs. Both academic merit and financial need will be considered during the selection process, as well as the imperative to increase the participation of women and black people in SET.
The CSIR invites applications from students wishing to register for undergraduate (all levels) and honours studies for the 2015 academic year in the following operating units and fields:
CLO
SIN
GD
ATE
:15
SEPT
EMBE
R20
14
www.csir.co.za
BSc/BEng undergraduate studies in the built environment fields:•Civil •Architecture•Geo Information Systems(GIS)•Construction Management•Mathematics •Oceanography•Mechatronics•Mechanical
BSc/BEng undergraduate and postgrad-uate studies in the defence and security fields:•Electronic•Electrical (light current)•Mechanical•Aeronautical• Industrial •Computer Science •Computer Engineering•Applied Mathematics and Physics•Chemistry •Biomedical Engineering
BSc/BEng undergraduate and postgraduate studies in the information and communication technologies fields:•Electronic •Software •Computer Engineering•Computer Science•Artificial Intelligence• Information Systems•Computational Linguistics• Information Technology•Remote Sensing
Areas of Interest include: Speech analytics (audio and text), Wireless technologies, High Performance computing, Hybrid broadcasting and broadband technologies, Software devel-opment, Mobile applications, Data Science and Visualisation, Sensor Networks
BSc/BEng undergraduate studies in the information security fields:•Applied Mathematics (physics) (first year)•Mechanical Engineering (first year)
•Computer Science (third or fourth year)•Computer Engineering (third or fourth year)
BSc/BEng undergraduate studies in the natural resources and the environmental sciences fields:•Chemical Engineering (BTech or BEng) (fourth
year)•Meteorology/ Climatology (Applied Math-
ematics/ Physics/ Mathematical Statistics provided with interest in Climatology & the environmental sciences) (third year)
•Chemistry (fourth year)
BSc/BEng postgraduate studies in the natural resources and the environmental sciences fields:•Chemistry •Meteorology/Climatology (Applied
Mathematics/ Physics/ Mathematical Statistics provided with interest in Climatology & the environmental sciences)
•Geography and Environmental Management with a focus on Waste management
Requirements:•A South African citizen •Planned enrolment at a South African university
in 2014 •An average of 65% for the current academic year
Your application must include: •A copy of your Identity Document• A copy of your CV • Latest transcripts (academic results).
CSIR
CSIR LAUNCHES AN OPEN-INNOVATION PLATFORM AIMED AT DEVELOPING AND
SUPPORTING BIO-MANUFACTURING
The CSIR has launched a
Biomanufacturing Industry
Development Centre (BIDC) to pro-
vide product and process development
support to SMEs that intend to produce
biologicals for industrial, veterinary and
human applications.
Funded through the Jobs Fund of the
Development Bank of Southern Africa
(DBSA) and the Department of Science
and Technology (DST), the centre is the
first of its kind built in the country. The
BIDC is meant to become a hub for open-
innovation in biomanufacturing and is
specifically dedicated to start-ups and
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
in the development of new technologies
and products. It will provide incubated
companies with access to ready-to-use
biomanufacturing facilities and supporting
research and development (R&D) labora-
tories, as well as access to experts in the
fields related to bioprocess development
and scale-up.
The BIDC aims to support and develop
at least 12 businesses over the next
three years, leading to a potential Gross
Domestic Product contribution of up to
R180 million per annum. The true benefit
of this investment however, will be seen in
the years thereafter as the biomanufactur-
ing sector grows.
The CSIR BIDC is located in newly refur-
bished buildings at the CSIR campus in
Pretoria.
The centre will support companies
through the prototyping and scale-up
phases of product development and will
assist them to do market acceptance test-
ing, and to launch products on the market.
The companies will remain the sole own-
ers of their innovations and retain abso-
lute control over their future in terms of
added value and partnerships. The facility
will also help lower the cost and barriers
that inhibit innovative enterprises from
translating their inventions into market-
ready products, and will play an enabling
role in developing necessary partnerships
that will directly contribute to sustainable
job creation.
The CSIR BIDC is designed in such a way
that it is highly flexible and adaptable
because this synthesis of academic and
industrial activity will accelerate innova-
tion and process development. With entre-
preneurs, students and industrial experts
all in the mix, we expect the CSIR BIDC to
help evolve the best practices of biomanu-
facturing by providing applied experience
for the incubatees to go out there and
become well-established business people.
34 Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
CSIR
MAKING A CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS AN HIV/AIDS-FREE GENERATION
“I am always affected by the statistics
on women who are infected by HIV,
but also children. Children do not
choose to be HIV positive; they are born
with it, especially through mother to child
transmission. The idea is to help mothers
who are already HIV positive. Even if they
are taking anti-retrovirals (ARVs), research
has proven that 33% of the children who
are breastfed by HIV positive mothers still
get infected,” says Dr Grace London who is
a senior researcher within the emerging
health technologies competence area at
the CSIR.
Her area of specialisation is the preven-
tion of mother to child transmission in
breast milk using nucleic acid ligand
called aptamers. This work is something
that is close to her heart. Grace and the
team of research scientists that she works
with envisage an HIV/Aids-free generation
where children will not get infected at all.
Her determination and drive to bring
change to the lives of others led to
her joining the CSIR in 2008 from the
University of Cape Town, where she was
enrolled for her MSc studies. In 2013,
she completed her PhD and went on to
become the first black woman from Parys,
a small town in the northern Free State, to
obtain a PhD.
“I did not even know that I was the first
black woman from Parys to obtain a PhD.
I was even surprised when the Premier of
the Free State, Ace Magashule, mentioned
in his State of the Province address on 21
February 2014 that he would like to con-
gratulate a lady from his hometown who
just graduated with her PhD. I think the
reason he mentioned it was not all about
bragging, but rather for young people to
be motivated.”
“The journey was not simple. A PhD is very
demanding and an emotional roller-coast-
er. You get a lot of roadblocks, sometimes
things don’t really work out and you can
go on for a year doing one thing. However,
I learned a lot through that period, and
that’s the emotional part of it because
sometimes you spend roughly 20 hours a
day trying to make things work. The per-
son I was when I started my PhD is not
the same person I am after I graduated.
You mature so much.”
Among her accolades are several inter-
national scholarships. These include the
Global Health - Bill & Melinda Gates
Foundation Scholarship and the Fulbright-
Fogarty Award to complete part of her
PhD work at Scripps Research Institute in
California for six months. Grace has also
presented at eight conferences (four inter-
national and four local). Moreover, in 2013
she won the Discovery Clinical Excellence
Award for best poster at the 6th South
African AIDS conference held in Durban.
Dr Hazel Mufhandu, one of Grace’s col-
leagues, describes her as a hard worker.
“Her determination to get things done, as
well as the drive to constantly look for
better ways of doing things ultimately
helps her to pull through, no matter how
challenging the situation she finds her-
self in,” she says. Hazel adds, “Grace is a
humorous person; likes to chat a lot; is
a go-getter; and accomplishes her tasks
once she puts her mind to it.”
Apart from her research work, Grace is
also interested in astronomy and is a
member of the Silverton Astronomy Club.
She also loves road running. “I belong to
the CSIR Running Club and ran the Old
Mutual Two Oceans Marathon 56 km this
year.”
35Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
DST
Two of our young researchers from
South Africa will be among thou-
sands of scientists and researchers
attending Europe’s largest science confer-
ence, which takes place in Copenhagen,
Denmark, from 21 to 26 June.
Takatso Semenya, a physiotherapist at the
University of Limpopo, and Prof. Mamello
Thinyane, who is an associate professor
at Fort Hare University’s Department of
Computer Science, will be accompanying
the Minister of Science and Technology,
Naledi Pandor, and the newly appointed
President of the Medical Research Council
and leading HIV/Aids specialist, Prof.
Glenda Gray.
The EuroScience Open Forum (ESOF)is an
open platform to debate science and a
showcase for global research. It also aims
to promote dialogue on the role of sci-
ence and technology in society and public
policy.
Speaking ahead of the event, Minister
Pandor said: “The EuroScience Open
Forum presents an opportunity for South
Africa to showcase its latest advances in
science. There is much to learn from this
country!”
Looking forward to discussions, Ms
Semenya said attending ESOF2014 would
help her glean best and novel practices in
science, technology and innovation, which
she would share and implement in South
Africa as a contribution to building a
knowledge-based economy.
“My plan is to use this opportunity to
learn from different experts in order to
help transform this country’s health sci-
ences research environment and products
into something uniquely African yet being
globally competitive,” said Ms Semenya.
Prof. Thinyane is particularly interested
in how information and communication
technologies (ICTs) can be used to address
socio-economic challenges, particularly in
rural areas and among the youth.
“For me this event presents a valuable
opportunity to exchange knowledge in
the ICT field and network with research-
ers from other countries. There are many
Europeans who are interested in Africa,
and ESOF is a chance to sell South Africa
and find ways to form partnerships
towards the development of this country,”
said Prof. Thinyane.
Prof. Gray is scheduled to make a presen-
tation on how health diplomacy drives
business and innovation.
Themed “Science Building Bridges”, the
conference is aimed at raising the public’s
awareness of science and strengthening
the “bridges” between science and society.
Denmark has a deep-rooted scientific
tradition and a strong commitment to
scientific and technological innovation,
which play an important role in translat-
ing knowledge from science to society.
South Africa remains one of the most suc-
cessful participants from outside Europe
in the EU Framework Programmes for
Research and Technological Development,
with major participation dating back to
the fourth framework programme. Under
the seventh, more than R400 million in
EU funding was allocated to South African
organisations.
SA SCIENTISTS IN ACTIONScientists join Minister Pandor for EuroScience Open Forum 2014
Prof. Glenda Gray, Ms Grace Naledi Mandisa Pandor and Prof. Mamello Thinyani
National Science Week 2014 Focus Week 2014: 4 - 9 August 2014Launch: Saturday, 2 August 2014
37Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
UWC
UWC LAUNCHES GREEN NANOTECHNOLOGY CENTRE
Meaningful science for helping humanity
On the 14th of July the University
of the Western Cape (UWC)
proudly launched its newest
research facility, the Centre for Green
Nanotechnology.
The establishment of this Centre was
made a reality through the positive part-
nership between the University of Missouri
(UM) and UWC that spans approximately
30 years.
To celebrate the launch of this Centre,
speakers at the event included Prof Brian
O’Connell, Rector of UWC; Prof Richard
Bowen Loftin, Chancellor of UM; Prof Ken
Dean, Provost of UM; and Prof Ramesh
Bharuthram, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of
UWC.
Green nanotechnology is a relatively new
science which aims to create environ-
mental green technologies in an effort to
tackle real problems. Nanotechnology has
improved the design and performance of
products in various areas such as electron-
ics, medicine and medical devices, food
and agriculture, cosmetics, chemicals,
materials, coatings, energy and so forth.
According to Prof Bharuthram, “Green nan-
otechnology provides an opportunity to
combine the strengths of nanobioscience,
nanochemistry and nanophysics towards
innovative solutions for societal benefit”.
The establishment of the Centre for Green
Nanotechnology started in 2008/09 when
UWC embarked on developing a 5-year
institutional strategic plan for 2010-2014.
The Institutional Operational Plan (IOP)
identified eight institutional goals which
included: Goal 2 – Teaching & Learning;
and Goal 3 – Research & Innovation.
39Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
UWC
TEAM YOUDUBSWins international
supercomputing competition
The University of the Western Cape
(UWC) congratulates the South
African supercomputing Centre for
High Performance Computing (CHPC) team
comprising of UWC’s “Team Youdubs” –
Nicole Thomas, Eugene de Beste, Warren
Jacobus and Saeed Natha – together
with two others Ellen Nxala (Fort Hare
University) and Pieter Malan (Stellenbosch
University), for proudly representing
South Africa and clinching the number
one spot at the fiercely contested Annual
International Student Cluster (ISC) compe-
tition in Leipzig, Germany.
Team Youdubs had won the South African
national Student Cluster Competition,
which enabled them to compete at this
international event.
“UWC is exceptionally proud of the stu-
dents and this result. The fact that our
students are able to compete and win at
an international level further proves the
high quality level of education offered at
UWC,” says Prof Brian O’Connell, Rector and
Vice-Chancellor of UWC.
At this year’s competition, 11 national
teams from around the world competed
against each other to measure applica-
tion performance which included keeping
within a power budget of 3kW.
During the competition teams had to
assemble, test and tune their computer
cluster machines illustrating their know-
how and innovation capabilities. A com-
puter cluster is a set of loosely connected
or tightly connected computers that work
together so that in many respects they can
be viewed as a single system.
Students from the University of Science
and Technology, China took second place;
third place went to students from Tsingua
University (also China); and the University
of Edinburgh, UK (EPCC) team took the
award for highest LINPACK with an
impressive 10.14 teraflops.
Team SA has been driven by David
Macleod and Nick Thorne from the Centre
for High Performance Computing (CHPC),
and the team was also supported by Peter
van Heusden, a Senior Software Developer
based at UWC. Van Heusden says that
while he did not go to Germany with the
team, they kept in contact on a daily basis.
Van Heusden says that with regard to
South African computational science, we’re
always fighting being the ‘data providers’
– whether it is in astrophysics or in bioin-
formatics, there is this idea that the data
comes from Africa, the analysis from the
US and Europe.
Assisting the students with this competi-
tion has been his contribution towards
changing that, and illustrating that SA has
some great scientific minds.
40 Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
BUDGET VOTE
An additional R5,8 billion is needed
if South Africa is to achieve the
National Development Plan’s target
of 100 000 PhDs by 2030.
Delivering the Department of Science and
Technology’s Budget Vote for 2014/15 in
Parliament, Minister Naledi Pandor said, “In
order to reach this target we need to train
6 000 PhDs per annum. We now produce
just over 1 800 PhDs per year.”
“Currently we lack research-supervision
capacity and the doctoral-student pipe-
line is too narrow. We need to support
researchers who are capable of supervis-
ing postgraduate students, and to cre-
ate appropriate incentives for students
to remain in the system up to doctoral
level. We have recently begun investing in
emerging researchers through postdoctor-
al fellowships in the Thuthuka programme,
and research-career-advancement fellow-
ships,” she added.
The budgetThe Department of Science and
Technology received a total of R6 470,2
billion from the National Treasury for the
2014/15 financial year.
Most of this is distributed to the six enti-
ties reporting to the Department, which
are the National Research Foundation
(R851 million); the Council for Scientific
and Industrial Research (R825 million);
the Technology Innovation Agency (R380
million); the Human Sciences Research
Council (R276 million); the South African
National Space Agency (R118 million) and
the Academy of Science of South Africa
(R21 million).
Key priorities in 2014/15Over the medium term, the Department
of Science and Technology will focus on
developing human capital, creating new
knowledge, investing in research and
development infrastructure and encourag-
ing innovation in South Africa by fund-
ing marketable products emerging from
research.
The Department will also make transfers
to fund the MeerKAT, precursor to the
Square Kilometre Array (SKA) radio tele-
scope. The MeerKAT, which will eventually
have 64 antennae, should increase from
four dishes in 2014/15 to 27 in 2015/16
and 31 in 2016/17.
The African Very Long Baseline
Interferometry Network (AVN) is being
rolled out and will involve South
Africa’s eight SKA African partner coun-
tries. Through the AVN programme,
SKA South Africa, in partnership with
the Hartebeesthoek Radio Astronomy
Observatory, has also trained scientists
and engineers from Ghana and Kenya. The
AVN programme will continue to assist
with training more technicians and scien-
tists.
R1,4 billion has been allocated over
the medium term from the Economic
Competitiveness and Support Package for
industrial partnerships, research into satel-
lite development, titanium technology and
nanotechnology, and for the internship
programme.
To improve South Africa’s global competi-
tiveness, the Department will make trans-
fer payments to the Council for Scientific
and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the
National Research Foundation (NRF) to
fund 11 440 bursaries for postgraduate
research students in 2014/15, and close to
30 000 over the next two financial years.
TransformationThe NRF will disseminate a total of R1,7
billion in research grants and bursaries
this financial year to meet the strict
transformation guidelines set by Minister
Pandor, which include
increasing the ratio of black to total
researchers from 28% in 2013/14 to 40%
in 2016/17.
Increasing the ratio of female to total
researchers from 36% in 2013/14 to 50%
in 2016/17.
increasing the ratio of black to total
graduate students funded from 63% in
2013/14 to 71% in 2016/17.
increasing the ratio of female to total
postgraduate students funded from 53% in
41Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
2013/14 to 55% in 2016/17.
South African Research Chairs Initiative
There are now 157 awarded chairs, of
which 128 have been filled. Of the chair
holders, 73% were recruited in South
Africa, 21% are women and 28% are black.
There are plans for another 20 chairs. The
initiative has contributed to the transfor-
mation of the system by increasing the
number of black and female researchers.
Since the inception of the programme, the
number of black undergraduate students
has increased by 450% and the number of
postgraduate students by 400%.
Centres of excellenceCentres of excellence are physical or
virtual centres of research which concen-
trate existing capacity and resources to
enable researchers to collaborate across
disciplines on long-term projects that are
locally relevant and internationally com-
petitive in order to enhance the pursuit of
research excellence and capacity develop-
ment.
There are now 14 centres and invest-
ment in them has increased at an aver-
age of 20% a year since 2010/11. The
Department of Science and Technology is
exploring a further three centres – in Aids,
Human Settlements and Water Research,
all in collaboration with other depart-
ments.
Attracting young people to scienceThe Department will invest R497 mil-
lion over the Medium Term Economic
Framework period in implementing a
coordinated approach to science educa-
tion, science awareness and science com-
munication. The programme, run through
the South African Agency for Science and
Technology Advancement (SAASTA), will
reach about 350 000 learners and about
13 000 teachers.
In pursuit of increasing public engagement
on science, technology and innovation, a
science and education centre will be built
in Cofimvaba in the Eastern Cape at a cost
R30 million to encourage an appreciation
for science and to offer teacher training
in the area. A mobile science laboratory,
funded by the Department and the Sasol
Inzalo Foundation, will help the science
centre reach nearby rural areas.
Between 2012 and 2014, the Department
exposed about 1 341 unemployed gradu-
ates to work experience in science, engi-
neering and technology institutions. Of
these 58% were absorbed into permanent
employment in the same institutions and
others have found employment elsewhere.
The Department has allocated R80 million
to fund 1 000 science postgraduates in the
2014/15 internship programme.
Increasing gross expenditure on R&D to
1,5% of GDP.
The Department is busy investigating vari-
ous methods to increase the investment in
research and development to 1,5% of the
GDP as mandated by the manifesto of the
ANC during the general election this year.
That the ANC was the only party to make
such a commitment is a clear signal of sig-
nificance role to be played by science and
technology in the radical transformation of
South Africa.
The ICT RDI RoadmapThe roadmap is aimed at increasing public
and private investment in ICT research,
development and innovation by provid-
ing a mechanism to forecast technology
developments in targeted areas and iden-
tify critical areas for development if South
Africa’s socio-economic objectives are to
be met. The Department will require an
additional R9 billion to implement the
roadmap successfully.
Concerted efforts by the Department and
its ICT RDI implementing agency, the CSIR
Meraka Institute, have succeeded in sourc-
ing and leveraging additional funding of
about R258 million for ICT RDI activities.
This includesR15 million from the Development Bank of
South Africa Green Fund for the develop-
ment of an ICT Smart and Green Platform
aimed at demonstrating how ICT can sup-
port green economy goals for the country;
three-year funding of R61,1 million from
the Department of Science and Technology
and the Department of Rural Development
and Land Reform;
R62 million over three years from
the National Treasury’s Economic
Competitiveness Support Package for the
ICT Industry Innovation Partnership Fund;
R120 million from European Union
General Budget Support funding for an ICT
innovation programme.
42 Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
DST
DECODING OF EUCALYPTUS TREE GENOME U’NLOCKS NEW POSSIBILITIES
Hope for renewable fibre, fuel and biomaterials
Decoding of Eucalyptus tree genome
unlocks new possibilities for
renewable fibre, fuel and bioma-
terials – better and more wood, fibre and
cellulose – and possibly even future jet
fuel!
A University of Pretoria (UP) researcher,
Prof. Zander Myburg, took the lead as chief
investigator in a global project to dis-
cover the genetic blueprint of Eucalyptus
grandis, a species from a genus of fast-
growing trees commonly known as “gum
trees”(“bloekoms” in Afrikaans) in South
Africa.
The successful sequencing of this genome
has been published in the prestigious,
high-impact scientific journal Nature
(advanced online publishing at 19:00
London time on 11 June 2014;, print edi-
tion 19 June 2014).
“Now that we understand which genes
determine specific characteristics in these
trees, we can breed trees that grow faster,
have higher quality wood, use water
more efficiently and will cope better with
climate change,” Prof. Myburg explains
the significance of this major scientific
milestone. “Even more, we can turn well-
managed Eucalyptus plantations into
bio-factories to produce specific kinds of
sought-after materials and chemicals.”
He added: “With this new knowledge about
the molecular basis for superior growth
and specific adaptations in plants, we can
apply the same techniques to other woody
plants that can be used as feedstock in the
bio-economy of the future.”
Gum trees are highly adaptable and
grow exceptionally fast. While native to
Australia, these trees are planted world-
wide, mainly for timber, pulp and paper
production, but increasingly also for
“chemical cellulose” – a form of pure cel-
lulose that is used in a wide variety of
industrial products from textiles to phar-
maceuticals.
The project to sequence the Eucalyptus
grandis genome involved 80 researchers
from 30 institutions across 18 countries.
It took them five years to sequence and
analyse the 640 million base-pair genome.
Combing through the more than 36 000
genes found in Eucalyptus, the research-
ers homed in on those that may be able
to boost the economic value of the trees
by influencing the production of cellulosic
raw materials that can be processed for
pulp, paper, biomaterial and bio-energy
applications.
“As one of the lead organisations, the
University of Pretoria is delighted with the
positive outcomes of the project and the
exciting new opportunities for our genom-
ic research programmes,” says Prof. Anton
Ströh, Dean of the Faculty of Natural and
Agricultural Sciences at UP.
Prominent co-leaders on the project
include Prof. Dario Grattapaglia of the
Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation
(EMBRAPA) and Catholic University of
Brasilia; Dr Gerald Tuskan of the Oak
Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and
the BioEnergy Science Center (BESC) and
US Department of Energy Joint Genome
Institute (DOE JGI); Prof. Dan Rokhsar of
the DOE JGI; and Dr Jeremy Schmutz of the
DOE JGI and the HudsonAlpha Institute for
Biotechnology.
The US Department of Energy was a major
funder via its Joint Genome Institute in
Walnut Creek, California, where most of the
43Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
DST
DNA sequencing was done.
South Africa’s Department of Science and
Technology (DST), together with forestry
companies Sappi and Mondi, supported
Prof. Myburg and his team by funding the
construction of the genome map used as
a scaffold for genome assembly, as well as
the sequencing of expressed genes used
for annotation of the genome.
“The development of new knowledge and
skills in tree genomics, and the application
of that knowledge to enhance industry
competitiveness, is directly aligned with
the DST’s vision of a bio-economy,” says
Dr Phil Mjwara, Director-General of the
Department of Science and Technology.
“This is a superb example of full value-
chain thinking, and thus an important
investment for the Department.”
Prof. Myburg’s research team identified
genes encoding 18 final enzymatic steps
for the production of cellulose and the
hemicellulose xylan, both carbohydrates
that are enriched in wood fibre cells and
can be used for biofuel production. “By
tracing their evolutionary lineages and
expression in woody tissues, we defined
a core set of genes for biopolymer pro-
duction that are highly expressed in the
development of xylem – the woody tis-
sue that helps channel water throughout
the plant and strengthens the tree,” he
explains.
Team members Dr Carsten Külheim and
Prof. Bill Foley at the Australian National
University (ANU) also found that, among
sequenced plants to date, Eucalyptus
showed the highest diversity of genes for
specialised metabolites such as terpenes.
These hydrocarbons serve as chemical
self-defenses against pests, and also pro-
vide the familiar aromatic essential oils
used in medicinal cough drops and in
industrial processes.
Among the family of terpene compounds
naturally produced in plants – and in par-
ticularly high abundance in Eucalyptus
trees – derivatives of sesquiterpenes that
contain 15 carbon atoms (diesel fuel typi-
cally contains 10 to 24 carbon atoms) may
be promising alternatives for petroleum-
based fuels. Researchers have already
made important breakthroughs in engi-
neering aspects of terpene biosynthesis
into microbes such as bacteria and yeasts.
“This means that in future we could use
specially selected Eucalyptus genes in
bacteria and yeasts, turning them into bio-
factories to manufacture advanced biofu-
els on a large scale,” Prof. Myburg says. “In
future, jumbo jets may take off powered by
renewable, Eucalyptus-based fuel!”
Prof. Zander Myburg
44 Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
45Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
46 Science Stars Magazine Issue 5 | www.sciencestars.co.za
INSTITUTIONS
BIO-SCIENCE INSTITUTIONS
UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWNFACULTY OF SCIENCE
BIO-CHEMISTRY
ADMISSION AND SUBJECT REQUIREMENTSApplicants must attain a National Senior
Certificate with at least
36 points and need to have a minimum of
Mathematics 5 &
Physical Science 5 (NSC rating)
UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPEFACULTY OF SCIENCE
BIO-CHEMISTRY
ADMISSION AND SUBJECT REQUIREMENTS3 year Bsc degree
Compulsory and Prescribed subjects:
English at level 4 (home or first additional
language)
Math at level 4
Physical Science at level 4.
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICAFACULTY OF SCIENCEBIO-CHEMISTRY
ADMISSION AND SUBJECT REQUIREMENT
Matriculation exemption / National Senior
Certificate with appropriate subject combi-
nations and levels of achievement.
Minimum of 3 years.
UNIVERSITY OF STELLENBOSCHFACULTY OF SCIENCEBIO-CHEMISTRY
ADMISSION AND SUBJECT REQUIREMENT
Write the National Benchmark Tests AQL
and MAT
National Senior Certificate aggregate pass.
mark of at least 70%
Mathematics 4
Physical Sciences 4
Life Sciences 4
Strong recommendation: Afrikaans and
English as school subjects
Complete the Non-academic Merit Form
and submit it along with your application
UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURGFACULTY OF SCIENCEBIO-CHEMISTRYADMISSION AND SUBJECT REQUIREMENT
A minimum rating of 5 for Mathematics, if
Mathematics 1A is included in the study
programme.
A minimum rating of 4 for Mathematics if
Mathematics 1C is included in the study
programme.
A minimum rating of 5 for Physical Science
if Chemistry 1A and/or Physics 1A is
included in the study programme.
A minimum rating of 4 for Physical Science
if Chemistry 1C and/or Physics 1C is
included in the study
Programme.
UNIVERSITY OF FREE-STATE
FACULTY OF SCIENCE
BIO-CHEMISTRY
AP = 28
Language of tuition
(Eng or Afr) =
Achievement level 4
Mathematics =
Achievement level 5
Physical Sciences =
Achievement level 4.
NAME SYMBOL VALUE
Acceleration due to gravity g 9,8 m.s-²
Gravitational constant G 6,67 x 10 -11 N.m² kg -²
Charge on electron e- -1,6 x 10 -¹⁹ C
Speed of light in a vacuum c 3,0 x 10⁸ m.s -¹
Coulomb’s constant k 9,0 x 10⁹v N.m²C-²
Electron mass mₑ 9,11 x 10 -31 kg
Permitivity of free space Ԑₒ 8,85 x 10 -12 F.m -1
Planck’s constant h 6,63 x 10 -34J.s
Top Related