Enlisted graduates

Short bio Dr Hendrik Swiegers is a postdoctoral researcher whose work is dedicated tounderstanding the mechanisms of virulencein the Russian wheat aphid (RWA), a significant pest of wheat. His PhD research involved utilizing RNA sequencing to compare gene expression of virulent and non-virulent RWA biotypes, as well as their impact on the wheat transcriptome. His past research led to the development of a novel siRNA-based method for controlling aphid pests.Dr Swiegers’postdoctoral research focuses on the functional characterisation of RWA effectors, the molecular tools the aphid employs to manipulate its host plant.

Short bio I've been very fortunate to have spent more than ten years in a stimulating research environment in the Genetics Department at Stellenbosch University. The focus of my work to date has been on applying molecular biology tools to study plant-pathogen interactions in two economically important woody perennial crops, namely grapevine and citrus. This has provided valuable opportunities to acquire the hard skills necessary to accurately and rigorously conduct scientific research in a laboratory environment, but also the soft skills that accompany successfully working within a larger group. I'm passionate about making a success of my undertakings, and also contributing positively to the success of any team I form part of, be it in a leadership capacity or otherwise.

Short bio Dr Michaela van Staden, a recent PhD graduate, specialises in the integrated management and conservation of endemic sharks and rays. She is one of the few female geneticists in South Africa with expertise in both traditional and molecular taxonomy, and possesses diverse technical skills applicable to species delimitation, biodiversity conservation and evolutionary genomics – which are particularly useful for the ongoing projects within the Shark Genetics Lab. Dr van Staden has already made significant contributions to elasmobranch genetics research with several authored/co-authored scientific articles.