Honours class 2024 Shines
Genetics Research Explores Conservation, Food Security, and Human Health Challenges
In the prestigious Jan Mouton Building, the honours students in our Genetics Department showcased their final research projects on November 20, 2024, marking the completion of a challenging and transformative year. The modern lecture hall, with its state-of-the-art design and warm ambiance, provided the perfect setting for a day filled with intellectual curiosity and academic achievement.
The day began with a motivating speech by our Head of Department, Mr. Willem Botes, who inspired the students to reflect on their academic journey and the significance of their contributions to genetics research. The presentations that followed reflected the broad scope and impact of the department’s work. Some students focused on population genetics, studying species like sharks and dusky kob to better understand genetic diversity and conservation strategies. Others tackled challenges in agriculture and food security, working on crops such as wheat, beans, citrus, mushrooms, and grapevine to improve yields, resilience, and nutritional value. Meanwhile, human genetics research brought vital insights into health issues, focusing adolescent obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) in Southern African populations.
Over the past six months, these students immersed themselves in complex research, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical applications. From acquiring bioinformatics skills (Sequence analysis, phylogenetics, AlphaFold, MEGA, etc.) to conducting wet-lab experiments such as PCR, qPCR, RNA, DNA extraction, and gene cloning, they honed a diverse set of technical and analytical skills. This rigorous research phase followed an intense first semester of theoretical training, covering advanced modules such as Molecular Techniques, Human and Animal Genetics, Genetic Data Analysis, Statical analysis, Scientific Writing, Plant Genetics + Crop Improvers, and Genomics.
As the day progressed, the initial nerves and tension in the room gave way to growing confidence and excitement. The professionalism displayed by the students was evident, and their passion for their work shone through with every presentation. By the afternoon, the atmosphere was vibrant and celebratory. While some of these graduates have expressed a strong interest in pursuing Master’s degrees to further their academic careers, others are eager to apply their skills and knowledge in the working world, stepping into industries where their expertise will make a meaningful impact. Both paths are a testament to their dedication and the solid foundation they have built here in the Genetics Department. The day concluded with a speech by our Honours Coordinator, Dr. J. Lashbrook, who commended the students for their hard work. The honours class of 2024 has proven their commitment to excellence, overcoming challenges and growing as a scientist but also as an individual.
Congratulations to the honours class of 2024! Your journey has been a challenging one, but you have emerged stronger, more skilled, and ready to take on the next chapter. The Genetics Department is immensely proud of you and looks forward to seeing all that you will achieve in the future.
Composed by The Department Scribe – M. le Roux
