School of Molecular and Life Sciences
Department of Biochemistry Microbiology and Biotechnology
Welcome to the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Biotechnology
The Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Biotechnology at the University of Limpopo is delighted to welcome you to our exciting programme, which will provide you with access to the national and international life sciences communities and industries. Graduates of our Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Biotechnology programmes work in nearly every possible life sciences industry, with a wide range of employment opportunities. It includes human health care, diagnostics, agriculture sectors, food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and medicinal product manufacturing, industrial microbiology and biotechnology, public health, forensic sciences, and environmental sectors such as water treatment and purification, as well as government. We look forward to providing you with a very strong foundation and all the tools required to prepare you for the Life Sciences degree expectations in response to the university vision and the national framework of our country, whether you are just starting, thinking about starting, or are already continuing your educational journey with us.
Since the outbreak of the pandemic, we have faced a variety of public health challenges and devised strategies to adapt our curriculum offerings to an ever-changing situation, as well as to find opportunities for growth amid the many changes without compromising on the quality of our offerings. Although the upcoming academic year still holds some uncertainty for us in light of the ongoing pandemic, we collaborate with industries, stakeholders, and universities across the country and have established collaborations with international communities to ensure that the academic offering provided to you is of high quality and will prepare you to face future challenges with confidence.
General Information & Programmes
Undergraduate Rules
GENERAL RULES
BMBT1
Departmental Rules should be read in conjunction with the University General Rules (G-Rules), Faculty of Science and Agriculture Rules (FSA-Rules) and School of Molecular and Life Sciences Rules (SMLS-Rules) and, except where otherwise stipulated by the Department, should hold good for the individual programmes.
DEGREE PROGRAMMES
BMBT2
-
- Before enrolment into any of the programmes on offer by the Department, it is the responsibility of each student to acquaint him/herself with all applicable Rules.
- Every student shall follow a curriculum, approved by the Head of Department, for at least the minimum period prescribed for the degree as specified under Rule G10 and Rule SMLS2.
- Annual enrolment into all programmes on offer by the Department will be aligned with the Departmental enrolment planning and subject to approval by the Head of the Department.
B. RULES FOR UNDERGRADUATE STUDY
PROGRAMME ENROLMENT AND COMPOSITION
BMBT3
-
- The curriculum shall extend over three year levels and be composed of a combination of modules that include at least two majors selected as explained under Rule FSA 3 and Rule SMLS3.3:
- Biochemistry as a major, with at least one of the following as joint major(s): Botany, Microbiology, Physiology or Zoology. A major from another School in the Faculty may be selected, but with the provision of Rule FSA3.3.
- Biotechnology as a major with at least one of the following as joint major(s): Biochemistry, Botany, Microbiology, Physiology or Zoology. A major from another School in the Faculty may be selected, but with the provision of Rule FSA3.3.
- Microbiology as a major, with at least one of the following as joint major(s): Biochemistry, Botany, Physiology or Zoology. A major from another School in the Faculty may be selected, but with the provision of Rule FSA3.3.
- For a degree majoring in Biochemistry, credits of the following four modules on offer by the Department must be successfully accumulated: SBIA021, SBIA022, SBIA031 and SMIB032.
- For a degree majoring in Biotechnology with Microbiology and Biochemistry relating to rule BMBT 3.1.2.1, credits of the following ten modules must be successfully accumulated: SBIA021, SBIA022, SBIA031, SBTB031, SBTA032, SMIA021, SMIB022, SBTA022, SMIB032 and any one other module as an elective at second year level provided that all rules are met in electing the module.
- For a degree majoring in Biotechnology relating to rule BMBT 3.1.2.2, credits of the following six modules on offer by the Department must be successfully accumulated: SBIA021, SBIA022, SBTA022, SBTB031, SMIA021 and SMIB032.
- For a degree majoring in Microbiology, credits of the following six modules on offer by the Department must be successfully accumulated: SBIA021, SBIA022, SMIA021, SMIB022, SBTB031 and SMIB032.
- For a degree majoring in Biochemistry and Microbiology, credits of the following eight modules on offer by the Department must be successfully accumulated: SBIA021, SBIA022, SBIA031, SBTB031, SBTA032, SMIA021, SMIB022 and SMIB032.
- Modules offered in the Department are composed of a theory and a practical component, where applicable, both of which contribute to the final modular mark as explained under Rule BMBT4.2. Students are expected to attend both of these and Rule G13 will apply.
- SCWS012 is reserved for water and sanitation students.
- Students repeating any of the modules on offer by the Department may, under exceptional circumstances and with approval from the Head of Department, be exempted from the practical component of the module subject to Rules G8.3.3, G12.2, G20.2 and SMLS3.5.
- The curriculum shall extend over three year levels and be composed of a combination of modules that include at least two majors selected as explained under Rule FSA 3 and Rule SMLS3.3:
ASSESSMENT AND RELATED ASPECTS
BMBT4
-
- These rules should be read in conjunction with Rules G12 to G23, FSA4 and SMLS4.
- All modules in the Department are subjected to continuous assessment, with the final mark calculated as follows: average of all formative assessments (60%) and summative theory assessment (40%).
- Assessment in all modules will be aligned with the Departmental assessment policy and procedure.
- Assessment criteria of each module are described under Departmental Detailed Description of Modules.
C. RULES FOR POSTGRADUATE STUDY
BMBT5
-
- The rules contained under Sections A, C, D, E and F of the G-Rules of the University, Sections A, C, D and E of the FSA-Rules and Section C of the SMLS-Rules apply.
- Enrolment and renewal of registration for all postgraduate studies is subject to approval by the Head of Department and supervisor(s). In all cases Rules G10, G31.1, G44 and G54 shall apply.
HONOURS BACHELOR OF SCIENCE: BSc (HONS) [HSCD01 / HSCF01]
BMBT6
-
- The course extends over a period of one academic year.
- The minimum requirement for admission into the programme is:
- A BSc-degree with Biochemistry/Biotechnology/Microbiology or equivalent (final average mark for the third level modules of at least 60%) as a major subject. A candidate who does not meet this requirement may be admitted on special recommendation, after consultation with and approval by the Head of Department. In such cases, a mid-year progress report from the Head of Department will determine continuation in the programme.
- On special recommendation, including application of the RPL policy and strategy of the University of Limpopo and after consultation with and approval by the Head of Department.
- Programme structure: The programme consists of four (4) theory modules and a supervised Research Project that culminates in a research report. All modules are assessed by an external assessor. The duration for each theory module is eight weeks as scheduled internally by the Department. The research project is continuous throughout the academic year.
MASTER OF SCIENCE: MSc [SBIA090 / SMIA090]
BMBT7
-
- The minimum requirement for admission into the programme is:
- A BSc (Hons)-degree in Biochemistry/Microbiology or equivalent,
- On special recommendation, including application of the RPL policy and strategy of the University of Limpopo and after consultation with and approval by the Head of Department.
- The minimum requirement for admission into the programme is:
7.2 In addition to those requirements above, the skills profile of potential students will be assessed and they may be required to qualify themselves with additional competencies as deemed to be essential by the Department.
-
- Programme structure: The MSc in Biochemistry or Microbiology comprises a dissertation (Rule G45.1) based on the results of an approved supervised research project presented in a form suitable for publication.
- Depending on the field of research, an external supervisor(s) may be required to supply effective supervision of the project.
- Students will be required to present biannual progress reports in the form of oral presentations.
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY: PhD [SBIA100 / SMIA100]
BMBT8
-
- The minimum requirement for admission into the programme is:
- An MSc-degree in Biochemistry/Microbiology or equivalent,
- On special recommendation, including application of the RPL policy and strategy of the University of Limpopo and after consultation with and approval by the Head of Department.
- Programme structure: The PhD in Biochemistry or Microbiology comprises a thesis (Rule G57) based on the results of an approved original supervised research project presented in a form suitable for publication.
- Depending on the field of research, an external supervisor(s) may be required to supply effective supervision of the project.
- Students will be required to present biannual progress reports in the form of oral presentations.
- The minimum requirement for admission into the programme is:
Biochemistry
As its name implies Biochemistry is the science concerned with the chemical component of living cells (Bio) and with the reactions and processes that they undergo (chemistry). Biochemistry involves the study of the structure, organisation, and functions of living matter in molecular terms. It has a multidisciplinary nature that allows it to use results from many sciences to answer questions about the molecular and chemical nature of life processes. These processes encompass organisms from the five kingdoms of life: bacteria, yeasts, plants, fungi and animals. It answers questions varying form topics in food sciences to those in medical sciences. Historically, it has progressed from basic research on proteins, lipids and carbohydrates, through the elucidation of many metabolic pathways to the exciting and complex world of molecular biology and recombinant DNA technology.
The main objective of biochemistry is the complete understanding at the molecular level of all the chemical processes associated with life. To achieve this objective, Biochemists have sought to understand the numerous molecules found within a cell, determine their structures and analyse how they function. Most often, a change in the biochemical function of a molecule is directly related to a change in structure of that molecule or in the metabolic pathway in which that molecule functions. All diseases, for example, are manifestations of abnormal biochemical processes. Biochemists have used this structure/function relationship to the advantage of mankind by improving processes for the manufacture of many industrially important compounds.
To conclude, anything more than a superficial comprehension of life, in all of its diversity, demands knowledge of biochemistry.
Knowledge of Biochemistry is essential to all Life Sciences. The scope of biochemistry is very wide and includes studies in microorganisms, plants, insects, fish, birds, mammals and human beings. Many workers in microbiology, chemistry, zoology, botany and physiology employ biochemical approaches almost exclusively. These relationships are not surprising, because all life depends on biochemical processes. To be more specific, the study of body functions (physiology) overlaps directly with biochemistry; immunology employs numerous biochemical techniques; genetic variability within plant and animal breeds relies on biochemistry, as does pharmacology, toxicology and forensic science. A basic comprehension of biochemistry and its applications is thus a powerful tool to have for anyone entering into a field of Molecular and Life Sciences.
Why study biochemistry at the University of Limpopo?
The discipline of Biochemistry at the University of Limpopo was established more than twenty years ago. Although still young compared to some other Biochemistry departments around the country, we have achieved both national and international recognition for our research and teaching. The staff is well qualified and dedicated to the task of educating graduates in this interesting field. Graduate students have found many opportunities to further their studies at UL, and at other national and international universities. At a national level, Biochemistry at the University of Limpopo has established links with the University of Pretoria, The University of the Free State, and the University of the Western Cape. International links have been established with the University of Calgary, Canada and the University of Kentucky, USA. Furthermore, we have modern laboratories which are well equipped for modern research.
Anyone doing a BSc degree, and is interested in chemistry and biology can take it as a major subject. Biochemistry is a service course in Agriculture, and plays an important role in the Health Sciences.
Biochemistry is a two year major subject and can only be taken in the second year of study.
Entry assumptions for Biochemistry modules are: Chem101 and 102, or Chem 110 and 120. Biology subjects such as BIOS 101, BIOS 102 and BIOS 103 will give students an added advantage.
Because Biochemistry is a diverse subject it can be taken together with many other science subjects, depending on your interests. Subjects such as: Chemistry, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Botany, Zoology and Environmental Health are good second majors to take with Biochemistry.
Career opportunities
These include: Agriculture (Crop Sciences, Animal Sciences, Horticulture, Insecticides, Herbicides, Aquaculture), Environmental Sciences (Water purification, Forestry), Biotechnological Sciences (Food and Beverage industry), Health Sciences (Drug development, Medical Research), Pathological Sciences (Physiology, Microbiology), Biological Sciences (Zoology, Botany, Entomology) and Forensic Sciences
Biotechnology
Biotechnology is considered by the European Federation of Biotechnology as ‘the integration of natural and engineering sciences in order to achieve the application of organisms, cells, part thereof, and molecular analogues for product and services’.
It is one of the fastest growing fields in the world and contributes millions in revenue to the world economies, especially in the USA and the European Union. South Africa has not yet taken advantage of the boom in biotechnology and the benefits associated with it. The University of Limpopo is situated in an area where there is diverse plant, animal and microbial life that has not been exploited to our advantage. The School of Molecular and Life Sciences is striving to become a Centre of Excellence in the training of Biotechnologists, as well as in a variety of research areas in which we take advantage of our natural heritage.
Unlike a single scientific discipline, Biotechnology can draw upon a wide array of relevant fields such as Microbiology, Biochemistry, Molecular biology, Cell biology, Immunology, Protein engineering, Biochemical/Chemical engineering, Enzymology, Classified breeding techniques, and a range of Bioprocess technology. To this end the MSc degree accepts Honours graduates (or equivalent), with good academic records, from multiple disciplines such as Aquaculture, Agriculture, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Medical Sciences, Biochemistry and Microbiology. Biotechnology is a priority field in our curriculum review as the School of Molecular and Life Sciences is committed to develop human resource capacity that can drive South Africa’s economy into the new millennium.
Why study biotechnology at the University of Limpopo?
Research interests under the Biotechnology niche area are focussed on utilizing the fauna and flora in the Limpopo Province of South Africa to develop new and innovative products that can enhance the quality of life of the inhabitants in the area. Research areas in the Biotechnology field include the isolation and improvement of industrially important enzymes and oils obtained from microorganisms in the region, the bio-control of pests to reduce crop damage and increase production, the development of the Marula plant up to economical viability, the screening of plants for anti-microbial and anti-cancer drugs, and the isolation and characterization of microbes from harsh environments for utilization in industrial processes.
A newly developed undergraduate programme has been established at the University of Limpopo which focuses on industrial biotechnology. Biotechnology is a two year major subject and can only be taken in the second year of study. Entry assumptions for Biotechnology modules are: Chem101 and 102, or Chem 110 and 120, as well as BIOS 101. BIOS 102 and BIOS 103 will give students an added advantage. Microbiology or Biochemistry complement this subject well and can be taken as individual major subjects, or as a combination of the two, following the Biotechnology programme depending on your interests. Subjects such as Botany and Zoology are also good second majors.
Career opportunities
Biotechnologists are sought after in various food and beverage industries. They play an important role in the development of new products into the industry as well as in the improvement of many existing products. Biotechnologists will also find careers which overlap those in Biochemistry and Microbiology mentioned above.
Microbiology
In general, Microbiology is the study of tiny “living things” (microbes) that are too small to be seen with the naked eye. Microbes (bacteria, viruses, moulds, yeasts and algae) are important for human, animal and plant health and welfare, food production and the environment. Several aspects of microbes are studied to gain an understanding of how to minimise their harmful effects and maximise their beneficial applications.
Cheese, beer, wine, bread, amasi, ting, vinegar, vaccines and diseases such as sexually transmitted diseases, tuberculosis or HIV/AIDS or food spoilage are all products and aspects with which we are familiar with in our daily lives. Different types of microbes play a role in the above just mentioned. Most people tend to see microbes only as “germs” associated with uncomfortable and sometimes deadly diseases or agents responsible for spoiling food. However, the majority of microbes are essential to the welfare of all living things and the environment. Microbes are found everywhere on or inside animals, plants, humans, oceans, rivers, soil and in the air. Microbiology is therefore essentially the study of these tiny, fascinating living organisms; a science that was born 300 years ago.
Microbes are important for human, animal and plant health and welfare, food production, and the environment. Therefore it is essential to study all aspects of the various kinds of microbes such as bacteria, viruses, moulds, yeast and algae. We study the taxonomy, physiology, pathogenicity, biochemistry, genetics, ecology and biotechnological applications of microbes to improve our lives.
Why study microbiology at the University of Limpopo?
A modern centre of excellence in Microbiology exists, boasting well equipped laboratories and teaching facilities. We have friendly, dynamic and well qualified lecturers and support staff. The department is dedicated to quality teaching and research, and provides an environment in which you can study effectively and develop as a person, thus ensuring that your future career is built on a solid foundation. Our graduates are found at the top of national companies as well as in civil service, scientific research and education.
Microbiology is a two year major subject and can only be taken in the second year of study.
Entry assumptions for Microbiology modules are: Chem101 and 102, or Chem 110 and 120, as well as BIOS 101. BIOS 102 and BIOS 103 will give students an added advantage.
Microbiology can be taken together with many other science subjects, depending on your interests. Subjects such as: Biochemistry and Biotechnology complement Microbiology well. Others such as Botany, Zoology and Environmental Health are also good second majors to take with Microbiology.
Career opportunities
Microbiologists are in demand with the food, pharmaceutical and brewing industries. Government and semi-private institutions cover microbiological research in areas such as development of new vaccines and antibiotics, dairy research, bio-pesticides, nitrogen fixation, epidemiology of infectious diseases, their prevention and treatment, bio-mining and water-quality
Undergraduate Programmes
SBIA021: Essential Biomolecules, Signal Transduction |
Credits: 20 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: |
Content: |
SMIA021: Fundamental Microbiology |
Credits: 20 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: |
Content: |
SBIA022: Bioenergetics and Intermediary Metabolisms |
Credits: 20 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: |
Content: |
SMIB022: Environmental and Fungal Microbiology |
Credits: 20 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: SMIA021 |
Content: |
SBTA022: Introduction to Biotechnology |
Credits: 20 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: SBIA021 & SMIA021 |
Content: |
Third year
SBIA031: Proteins, Enzymes and Biochemical Techniques |
Credits: 32 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: SBIA021 & SBIA022 |
Content: |
SBTB031: Industrial Biotechnology |
Credits: 32 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: SBTA022 or SMIA021 |
Content: |
SMIB032: Gene Structure; |
Credits: 32 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: SBIA021 & SBIA022 |
Content: |
SBTA032: Immunobiology and Immunotechnology |
Credits: 32 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: SBIA031 |
Content: |
Postgraduate Programmes
Honours programme
SMOL081: Advanced Molecular Biology |
Credits: 20 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: |
Content: |
SANL081: General Separation Analytical Techniques |
Credits: 20 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: |
Content: |
SBTC082: Advanced Industrial Biotechnology |
Credits: 20 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: |
Content: |
SCIN082: Bioinformatics and Special Topics |
Credits: 20 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: |
Content: |
||
SBIC080: Research Project (Biochemistry) |
Credits: 40 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: |
Content: |
SMIC080: Research Project (Microbiology) |
Credits: 40 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: |
Content: |
Master of Science in Biochemistry
SBIA090: Dissertation |
Credits: 180 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: |
Content: |
Master of Science in Microbiology
SMIA090: Dissertation |
Credits: 180 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: |
Content: |
Doctor of Philosophy in Biochemistry
SBIA100: Thesis |
Credits: 360 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: |
Content: |
Doctor of Philosophy in Microbiology
SMIA100: Thesis |
Credits: 360 |
Co-requisite / Prerequisite: |
Content: |
Staff & Departmental Committees
Academic Staff
Prof. TM Matsebatlela B.Sc, M.Sc (Univ. Limpopo); PhD (Clemson University, USA) Tel: +27 15 268 3013 Fax: +27 15 268 2337 Email: thabe.matsebatlela@ul.ac.za |
HOD and Associate Professor | The use of trace elements in the treatment of inflammation and Cancer. Cancer Immunobiology. |
Prof. P Masoko B.Sc (Med.Sci), M.Sc (Univ. of the North); PhD (Univ. of Pretoria), Pr. Sci. Nat Tel: +27 15 268 2340 Tel: +27 15 268 4807 Fax: +27 15 268 3012 Email: peter.masoko@ul.ac.za |
Professor | Screening, isolation and characterisation of antimicrobial compounds from medicinal plants. Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry |
Prof. KLM Moganedi PhD (Univ. of Limpopo) Tel: +27 15 268 3630 Fax: 0866 208803 Email: kgabo.moganedi@ul.ac.za |
Professor | Water quality & human health Genetic profiling Bio-preservation |
Prof. EL Jansen van Rensburg B.Sc, B.Sc Hons, M.Sc, PhD (Univ. of Free State). Tel: +27 15 268 3025 Email: elbert.jansenvanrensburg@ul.ac.za |
Associate Professor | Yeast biodiversity, Biofuels |
Prof. VG Mbazima PhD (Univ. of Limpopo) Tel: +27 15 268 2339 Fax: +27 15 268 3234 Email: vusi.mbazima@ul.ac.za |
Associate Professor | Molecular and Cell Biology and Cancer |
Prof. Z Mbita B.Sc, B.Sc Hons (Univ. of the Western Cape), MSc, PhD (Wits Univ.) Tel: +27 15 268 3019 Email: zukile.mbita@ul.ac.za |
Associate Professor | Molecular and Cell Biology, Immunology and OMICS technologies |
Dr. V Morafo B.Sc, B.Sc Hons (Univ. of the North), M.Sc and PhD (Univ. Of Arkansas , Fayetteville, USA) Tel: +27 15 268 3014 Email: vivian.morafo@ul.ac.za |
Senior Lecturer | Immunology HIV Vaccines and vaccine design |
Dr. NN Phasha PhD (Univ. of Limpopo) Tel: +27 15 268 2862/3408 Fax: +27 15 268 3012 Email: nkateko.phasha@ul.ac.za |
Senior Lecturer | Enzyme Technology Biofuel Fermentation and animal feed |
Dr. M Mert B.Sc (Univ. of the Western Cape), B.SC Hons, PhD (Stellenbosch Univ.) Tel: +27 15 268 3855 Email: marlin.mert@ul.ac.za |
Senior Lecturer | Isolation of novel fungi and/or enzymes for lignocellulose biomass breakdown and metabolism for biofuel production. Strain development for inhibitor and temperature tolerant fungi for more robust fermentation processes. Fermentation, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology |
Dr. K Dithebe BSc, BSc Hons, MSc, PhD (UFS) Tel: +27 15 268 4665 Email: khumiso.dithebe@ul.ac.za |
Senior Lecturer | Bioprospecting of fungal endophytes from medicinal plants. Screening and identification of fungal endophyte secondary metabolites and their biological activities. Biotechnological applications of fungal endophytes. |
Dr. PKP Chokoe Ph.D (UL) Tel: +27 15 268 2225 Email: pirwana.chokoe@ul.ac.za |
Senior Lecturer | The bioactivity of medicinal plant extracts in inflammation and cancer. |
Dr. RT Makola B.Sc, M.Sc and PhD; University of Limpopo Tel: +27 15 268 2337 Email: raymond.makola@ul.ac.za |
Senior Lecturer | The use of synthetic compounds on treatment of viral replication and viral induced Oxidative stress. Virology and Immunology |
Ms. MM Mogashoa B.Sc, B.Sc Hons (Univ. of Southern Illinois-Carbondale, Illinois), M.Sc (Univ. of Pretoria). Tel: +27 15 268 2314 Fax: +27 15 268 3012 Email: mary.mogashoa@ul.ac.za |
Lecturer | Microbiology, Biotechnology Immunology Indigenous Knowledge Systems Medicinal Plants: Screening indigenous medicinal plants for antimicrobial compounds |
Dr. MA Lekganyane B.Sc, B.Sc Hons, MSc, PhD (University of Limpopo). Email: annastasia.lekganyane@ul.ac.za |
Temporary Lecturer | Medicinal plants, Indigenous foods |
Dr. L Makulana B.Sc, M.Sc, PhD (Univ. Limpopo) Tel: +27 15 268 3016 Email: livhuwani.makulana@ul.ac.za |
Temporary Lecturer | Enzyme Production, Fermentation, Biofuel production, Molecular Biology |
Dr. K Laka B.Sc, M.Sc, PhD (Univ. Limpopo) Tel: +27 15 268 2860 Email: kagiso.laka@ul.ac.za |
Temporary Lecturer | Cancer Molecular biology Medicinal plants |
Ms. MS Matlala BSc, MSc (Univ. Limpopo); PGCE (Wits) Email:sanna.matlala@ul.ac.za |
Temporary Lecturer | The use of medicinal plants in treatment of respiratory infections. |
Ms. ML Mulaudzi B.Sc, B.Sc Hons (University of Venda); M.Sc (University of Limpopo) Email: luscious.mulaudzi@ul.ac.za |
Temporary Lecturer | Biofuels and fermentation Water quality Isolation of fungal strains /enzymes for lignocellulose biomass |
Ms. L Makgoo B.Sc, B.Sc Hons, M.Sc (University of Limpopo) Tel: +27 15 268 2313 Email: lilian.makgoo@ul.ac.za |
n-GAP Lecturer | Gene regulation, aberrant splicing in carcinogenesis, Treatment of human cancers targeting alternatively spliced cancer-related apoptotic and cell cycle-related genes |
Mr. MZ Monama B.Sc, B.Sc Hons (University of Limpopo), M.Sc, (Rhodes University) Email: mokgerwa.monama@ul.ac.za |
n-GAP Lecturer | Drug discovery and optimization using computational approaches |
Ms. MR Lekganyane M.Sc (Univ. Limpopo) Tel: +27 15 268 4207 Tel: +27 15 268 3408 Email: manape.lekganyane@ul.ac.za |
n-GAP Lecturer | Fermentation |
Dr L M Legodi B.Sc, B.Sc Hons (UL), M.Sc (SU-Stellenbosch University), PhD (UL), PDBA (UCT) Email: lesetja.legodi@ul.ac.za |
Post-Doctoral Fellow (PDF) | Waste valorisation into biofuels. Microbial cellulolytic enzymes. Indigenous product development. |
Dr. PM Tebeila B.Sc, (UL), B.Sc (Dental) Hons (UL Medunsa), M.Sc (SMU), PhD (UL), Facilitator (Ndzalama training) Email:perpetua.tebeila@ul.ac.za |
Post-Doctoral Fellow (PDF) | Characterisation and control of microbial spoilage of indigenous fruits (Marula). Bio-preservation of fruits through discovery and/or development of biopesticides |
Dr. MM Matotoka B.Sc, B.Sc Hons, M.Sc, PhD; (Univ. of Limpopo) Email. mashilo.matotoka@ul.ac.za |
Post-Doctoral Fellow (PDF) | Antimicrobials, Biofilm and quorum sensing inhibitors, Medicinal plants. |
Dr. KW Poopedi B.Sc,B.Sc Hons, M.Sc (Univ. of Limpopo), PhD (Univ. of the Witwatersrand) Tel: +27 15 268 2861 Email: kgomotso.poopedi@ul.ac.za |
Senior Researcher | Non-communicable diseases NCDs (breast cancer, diabetes and obesity related inflammation). Epigenetic biomarkers as prognostic and diagnostic factors. |
Support Staff
Name | Position | Contact Details |
MS. RR Magongoa NAT. DIPL. Biotech (TUT) |
Senior Laboratory Assistant | Tel: +27 15 268 2844 Email: raisibe.magongoa@ul.ac.za |
MS. P Mkhize M.Sc (UKZN) |
Senior Laboratory Assistant | Tel: +27 15 268 3017 Email: phumzile.mkhize@ul.ac.za |
MR. MJ Mokubedi H.N.D Biotech (Surrey), B.Sc HONS (Southampton) |
Senior Laboratory Assistant | Tel: +27 15 268 2238 Email: marema.mokubedi@ul.ac.za |
Ms. S Pillay B.Sc Hons (UKZN) |
Senior Laboratory Assistant | Tel: +27 15 268 2481 Email: shirwin.pillay@ul.ac.za |
MS. DF Mangokoana B.Sc (UL) B.Sc HONS (UL) M.Sc (UL) |
Senior Laboratory Assistant | Tel: +27 15 268 3018 Email: dikgale.mangokoana@gmail.com |
MR. MP Makuru M.Sc (University of Limpopo) |
Laboratory Assistant | Tel: +27 15 268 3342 Email: moshabane.makuru@ul.ac.za |
MR. L Ramoba B.Sc (University of Limpopo) |
Laboratory Assistant | Tel: +27 15 268 4059 Email: louis.ramoba@ul.ac.za |
MR. DT Maleka B.Sc (University of Limpopo), PGCE (UNISA) |
Laboratory Assistant | Tel: +27 15 268 2860 Email: tiro.maleka@gmail.com |
Departmental Committees
Governance, Management and Human Resource
Convener: HoD, Prof TM Matsebatlela
Members: Prof Z Mbita, Prof KLM Moganedi, Ms. L Makulana, Dr. V Morafo, Mr. MP Makuru
Teaching and Learning (Academic programmes) (Incl DAC, Laboratory Practices, Library)
Convener: Prof Z Mbita
Teaching and Learning Matters
Convener: Prof Z Mbita
Members: Dr. NN Phasha, Prof TM Matsebatlela, Mr. L Ramoba
DAC
Convenor: Prof EL Jansen van Rensburg
Members: Prof TM Matsebatlela, Prof Z Mbita, Prof KLM Moganedi, Prof VG Mbazima, Dr V Morafo, Mrs L Makulana
Laboratory Practices
Convener: Mr. L Ramoba
Members: Ms. MR Lekganyane, Ms. P Mkhize
Library
Convener: Dr. NN Phasha
Members: Ms. RR Magongoa, Dr. V Morafo
Research and Ethics
Convener: Prof KLM Moganedi
Members: Dr. NN Phasha, Ms. P Mkhize, Prof VG Mbazima, Ms. PK Chokoe (Co-Opt research staff for proposal reviews)
Infrastructure and Security
Convener: Mr. MP Makuru
Members: Ms. RR Magongoa, Ms. MR Lekganyane, Mr. L Ramoba
Health and Safety
Convener: Ms. L Makulana
Members: Mr. DT Maleka, Ms. KG Laka, Ms. MR Lekganyane, Ms. DF Mangokoana
Marketing and Community Outreach
Convener: Dr. V Morafo
Members: Ms. RR Magongoa, Ms. MM Mogashoa, Dr. M Mert, Ms. A Lekganyane
SCHOOL CONTACTS
Head of Department
Prof. TM Matsebatlela
B.Sc, M.Sc (Univ. Limpopo); PhD (Clemson University, USA)
Tel: +27 15 268 2337
Fax: +27 15 268 2337
Email:thabe.matsebatlela@ul.ac.za
Senior Secretary
Ms Sinah Rakoto
Tel: +2715 268 2429
Email: sinah.rakoto@ul.ac.za