Special greetings everyone!
Graduation is always a moment of pride, not only for the graduates themselves but also for the academic community that supported their journeys. This past quarter, the TTL group was proud to celebrate the graduation of three of our members: Dr. Anza-Tshilidzi Ramabulana, Dr. Morena Tinte and Mr Musiwalo Samuel Mulaudzi.
Dr. Anza-Tshilidzi Ramabulana, in her doctoral journey, applied metabolomics, artificial intelligence and computational tools to characterize the metabolomes of Momordica species, producing the first metabolomic atlas of Momordica cardiospermoides and uncovering unique compounds with anti-diabetic potential, while also proposing novel frameworks for metabolome coverage. Her contributions align with SDG 3, the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and South Africa’s National Development Plan, and have already earned her publications in peer-reviewed journals, conference prizes, and international recognition. Meanwhile, Dr. Morena Tinte explored the biochemical and metabolic mechanisms by which seaweed extracts and microbial biostimulants improve maize (Zea mays) growth and resilience.
Through the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), computational metabolomics, and field trials, he revealed how biostimulants reprogram maize metabolism for improved yield and stress tolerance. His findings are already published in peer-reviewed journals, contributing directly to sustainable agriculture and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).
Completing this trio of success, Mr Musiwalo Samuel Mulaudzi obtained his MSc in Biochemistry with distinction through pioneering work that applied metabolomics to profile microbial biostimulant formulations derived from Bacillus strains. He assessed their effects on maize plants under field conditions, providing crucial insights into plant–biostimulant interactions and advancing sustainable farming practices. Together, these graduates embody excellence, resilience, and innovation, showcasing how cutting-edge science can drive transformative solutions for food security, health, and sustainability. We wish them all the best in their future endeavours and look forward to seeing the impact of their work.
Staying true to innovation and the sharing of knowledge in the scientific field, the Department of Biochemistry successfully hosted its annual Research Day on 3 September 2025, at the Kerzner Building, School of Tourism and Hospitality, Bunting Road Campus. Highlights included presentations from our very own Mr Musiwalo Samuel Mulaudzi, who showcased his MSc research.
On the other hand, Ms. Mutsawashe Blessing Dzveta, who showcased her MSc work titled “Exploring Metabolic Signatures of Plant Pathogenic Fungi: Advancing Strategies for Sustainable. The event not only celebrated the quality and diversity of research within the department but also provided a valuable platform for scientific exchange, mentorship, and networking. TTL was also delighted and honoured to welcome Dr. Keabetswe as our new Postdoctoral Research Fellow. She holds a B.Tech in Biotechnology from the Tshwane University of Technology and an MSc in Life Sciences from the University of South Africa.
Her MSc work ignited a passion for goats and genomics, leading her to pursue a PhD on the topic at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Her doctoral research centred on enhancing growth and carcass traits in South African goats and developing cost-effective management practices for smallholder farmers. Dr Ncube has extensive professional experience as a genomics specialist, microbiologist, quality control officer, postgraduate student supervisor, and subject coordinator in Animal Breeding and Genetics. With her strong background and skills, we are excited to see the impact she’ll bring to the group, driving innovation and advancing our knowledge across our three pillars of research.
To highlight the tangible impact of TTL’s research pillar, this quarter saw the following publications in partnership with our collaborators:
As we wrap up this quarter, we’ve celebrated our colleagues as they reached incredible milestones, shared our research with pride, and welcomed new members into our team. These moments remind us that being part of TTL is about learning together, showing support for each other, and chasing big dreams side by side. As we step into the last quarter of the year, we carry with us the excitement of what’s to come and the joy of knowing we’re on this journey together.
Written by: Asanda Mavodze, Sinekamva Mnyamana, Lufuno Mabogo and Anela Keke.
Edited by: Akhona Myoli and Fidele Tugizimana