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

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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

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    1. 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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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
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    1. 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:
      1. 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.
      2. 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.
      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.
      4. 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.
      5. 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.
      6. 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.
      7. 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.
      8. 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.
      9. 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.
    2. SCWS012 is reserved for water and sanitation students.
    3. 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 G8.3.3G12.2G20.2 and SMLS3.5.

ASSESSMENT AND RELATED ASPECTS
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    1. These rules should be read in conjunction with Rules G12 to G23, FSA4 and SMLS4.
    2. 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%).
    3. Assessment in all modules will be aligned with the Departmental assessment policy and procedure.
    4. Assessment criteria of each module are described under Departmental Detailed Description of Modules.

 

C.         RULES FOR POSTGRADUATE STUDY
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    1. 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.
    2. 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 G10G31.1G44 and G54 shall apply.

HONOURS BACHELOR OF SCIENCE: BSc (HONS) [HSCD01 / HSCF01]
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    1. The course extends over a period of one academic year. 
    2. The minimum requirement for admission into the programme is:
      1. 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.
      2. 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.
    3. 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]
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    1. The minimum requirement for admission into the programme is:
      1. A BSc (Hons)-degree in Biochemistry/Microbiology or equivalent,
      2. 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.

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.

    1. 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.
    2. Depending on the field of research, an external supervisor(s) may be required to supply effective supervision of the project.
    3. Students will be required to present biannual progress reports in the form of oral presentations.

DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY: PhD [SBIA100 / SMIA100]
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    1. The minimum requirement for admission into the programme is:
      1. An MSc-degree in Biochemistry/Microbiology or equivalent,
      2. 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.
    2. 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.
    3. Depending on the field of research, an external supervisor(s) may be required to supply effective supervision of the project.
    4. Students will be required to present biannual progress reports in the form of oral presentations.
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:
SCHM011 & SCHM012 or
SCHE011 & SCHE012

Content:
pH, water and buffers; Ionization of water; weak acids and weak bases and their titration curves; Structure and function of amino acids and their side chains in relation to their surroundings; Proteins and their primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary structures, which includes all the stabilizing forces involved, kinetics and vitamins ;Introduction of fundamental biochemical concepts of nucleic acids, lipids and carbohydrates; Chemistry of nucleic acids and their phosphorylated derivatives and their importance; Structure and functions of fatty acids, terpenoids, triacylglycerols, phospholipids and nature of biological membranes; Structure and functions of simple sugars and their properties; Signal transduction (mechanism and pathways to include nature of hormone action, signal transduction receptors, G-proteins, second messenger systems, steroid and intracellular receptors).

 

SMIA021: Fundamental Microbiology

Credits: 20

Co-requisite / Prerequisite:
SBIO011 & SCHM011 & SCHE011 or
SCHE011 & SCHE012

Content:
History and development of microbiology; Discuss key concepts in microbiology; Laboratory types and legal requirements; Distinctive characteristics of the major groups of microorganisms including viruses; Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structures; Nutritional requirements and microbiological media; Cultivation and growth of microorganisms; Physical and chemical control of microorganisms; Components and functions of the different parts of a typical bacterial cell (cell wall, cell membrane, flagella, endospores, etc.); Bacterial toxins; Methods of identification; Classification of major groups of bacteria.

 

SBIA022: Bioenergetics and   Intermediary Metabolisms

Credits: 20

Co-requisite / Prerequisite:
 SCHM011 & SCHM012 or
SCHE011 & SCHE012

Content:
Standard free energy change; Coupling of production and use of energy; Calculations of free energies; Overview of the glycolytic pathway; Anaerobic reactions of pyruvate; Control of glycogen metabolism; Control mechanisms of carbohydrate metabolism; Oxidative and non-oxidative pathways; Control of pentose phosphate pathway; The role of the citric acid cycle in metabolism; Energetics and control of the citric acid cycle; The glyoxylate pathway; Catabolism of lipids; The energy yield from oxidation of fatty acids; Formation of ketone bodies; The anabolism of fatty acids; The anabolism of acylglycerols and compound lipids; The anabolism of cholesterol; The role of electron transport in metabolism; Electron transport from NADH to oxygen; The coupling of oxidation to phosphorylation; Respiratory inhibitors and uncouplers; Shuttle mechanisms between mitochondria and cytosol; The ATP yield from complete oxidation of glucose; Energy considerations in glycolysis; An overview of the Nitrogen Cycle; Regulation of Nitrogen Metabolism; Catabolism of Amino Acids; Biosynthesis of amino acids; Inborn Errors of Metabolism Involving Amino Acids and their Derivatives; Anabolism of Purine Nucleotides; Catabolism and Salvage Pathways for Purine Nucleotides; Metabolic Defects Associated with Purine Nucleotide Metabolism; Metabolic Defects Associated with Pyrimidine Nucleotide Metabolism; The Reduction of Ribonucleotides to Deoxyribonucleotides; Thymine Biosynthesis

 

SMIB022: Environmental and Fungal Microbiology

Credits: 20

Co-requisite / Prerequisite: SMIA021

Content:
Pseudo fungi, Chromistan fungi and Eumycotan fungi; Eumycotan fungi – Zygomycota and Dikaryomycota; Dikaryomycota – subphylum Ascomycotina; Dikaryomycota – subphylum Basidiomycotina; Fungal plant pathology in agriculture and forestry; Mycorrhizae; Lichens; Food spoilage by fungi and its prevention; Mycotoxins in food and feed; Poisonous and hallucinogenic mushrooms; Medical mycology; Interactions between microbial populations and factors effecting populations; Biogeochemical cycles (carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus, iron and oxygen); Soil microbiology; Aquatic microbiology; Atmospheric microbiology; The role of microorganisms in water and sewage treatment; Water quality testing techniques

 

SBTA022: Introduction to Biotechnology

Credits: 20

Co-requisite / Prerequisite: SBIA021 & SMIA021

Content:
Overview of biotechnology; Growth and metabolism of microbes; Overview of recombinant DNA technology; Molecular genetics; Genomics and proteomics; Enzymes and bio-catalysis; Bio-fuels; Waste water treatment and utilization; Traditional fermentation; Application of animal and plant cell culture and products in agriculture; Industry and medicine; Introduction to product recovery; Public perception, social and ethical problems of biotechnology.

 

Third year

SBIA031: Proteins, Enzymes and Biochemical Techniques

Credits: 32

Co-requisite / Prerequisite: SBIA021 & SBIA022

Content:
Protein Primary structure; Protein secondary and tertiary structure; Overview of use of bioinformatics in protein structure and function; Quaternary Structure and Structure/Function Relationships; Enzymology, assays and kinetics; Enzyme Inhibition; Basic laboratory principles, safety and statistics; Basic laboratory techniques: fractionation; centrifugation; dialysis and ultrafiltration; photometry; Radioisotopes; Protein purification and characterisation techniques; Overview of modern protein structure determination techniques

 

SBTB031: Industrial Biotechnology

Credits: 32

Co-requisite / Prerequisite: SBTA022 or SMIA021

Content:
Definition, scope and development of biotechnology; Biocatalysis and biotransformation; Industrial enzymology and immobilisation of enzymes and applications; Bioreactor design and product yield; Introduction to process control; Processes and products dependent on microorganisms and cultured cells; Potential applications of biotechnology in mining, bioremediation, effluent treatment and biosensors; Downstream processing; Microbial growth processes; Major products of industrial microbiology; Recombinant DNA techniques; Production and use of GMOs; Molecular virology; Diagnostic techniques; Vaccines and vaccine development; Antibiotics; Incidence and types of microorganisms in different foods; Food spoilage and food preservation

 

SMIB032: Gene Structure;
Function, Molecular Biology

Credits: 32

Co-requisite / Prerequisite: SBIA021 & SBIA022

Content:
DNA Metabolism; Gene Expression and Regulation; Biochemistry of Viruses – Structure & function; Regulation of Eukaryotic Cell Cycle Controls; Genetic Basis of Cancer – An Introduction; Basic Molecular Biology Techniques; Recombinant DNA Technology; PCR and Applications; Sequencing Techniques.

 

SBTA032: Immunobiology and Immunotechnology

Credits: 32

Co-requisite / Prerequisite: SBIA031

Content:
Introduction to immunity and components of the immune system including blood and blood cells; Innate immunity; Structure of immunoglobulins; Mechanism of action of B and T-cells; Advanced aspects of the adaptive immune response; Antibodies as tools in Biomedicine; Recombinant DNA Technology approaches to overcoming limitations of monoclonal antibodies; Vaccines and vaccine development; Immunity and disease

Postgraduate Programmes

Honours programme

SMOL081: Advanced Molecular Biology

Credits: 20

Co-requisite / Prerequisite:

Content:
Advanced DNA structure and characterization; Prokaryotic and eukaryotic genome: Replication; Transcription; Translation; Gene regulation in prokaryotes and eukaryotes; Mutagenesis; DNA damage and repair; Advanced genetic engineering techniques to include structure and features of important vectors; DNA isolation and purification; DNA sequence analysis; Competent cell preparation; Gene cloning; Gene expression; PCR; DNA labelling and sequencing; Probe and primer design; Gene mapping; Molecular markers.

 

SANL081: General Separation Analytical  Techniques

Credits: 20

Co-requisite / Prerequisite:

Content:
Scientific communication skills and information gathering skills; General laboratory safety; Biological statistics methods; Basic microbial techniques; Microscopy; Spectrophotometry; Fluorimetry; Atomic absorption and emission spectroscopy; Radioisotopes and radiochemical techniques; Centrifugation; Chromatographic separation methods; Electrophoresis; Immunological techniques.

 

SBTC082: Advanced Industrial Biotechnology

Credits: 20

Co-requisite / Prerequisite:

Content:
Basic biotechnology concepts and survey of biotechnology processes; Microbial screening and strain development for production of microbial products; Industrial enzyme production and application; Fermentation technology; Microbial processes and application; Microbial food processes; Environmental biotechnology; Principles of mammalian cell cultures; Applications of animal cell cultures

 

SCIN082: Bioinformatics and Special Topics

Credits: 20

Co-requisite / Prerequisite:

Content:
Collection and storage of sequences; Biological data sources; Biological Databases; Searching and retrieval of biological data from databases; Sequence Alignment; Prediction of protein-coding genes; cDNA based approach; Ab initio gene discovery; Gene identification through comparative analysis; Functional genomics: From gene sequence to function, mutagenesis as a tool for studying gene function; Transposon mutagenesis, gene knockout, knock-ins, gene silencing by antisense RNA and RNAi; Protein bioinformatics/proteomics; Phylogenomics; Special topics according to the specialization of the department such as phytochemistry

SBIC080: Research Project (Biochemistry)

Credits: 40

Co-requisite / Prerequisite:

Content:
Conduct a supervised research project and write a mini-dissertation. Students are expected to present/discuss at least three research publications from reputable scientific journals during seminar sessions

 

SMIC080: Research Project (Microbiology)

Credits: 40

Co-requisite / Prerequisite:

Content:
Conduct a supervised research project and write a mini-dissertation. Students are expected to present/discuss at least three research publications from reputable scientific journals during seminar sessions

 

Master of Science in Biochemistry

SBIA090: Dissertation

Credits: 180

Co-requisite / Prerequisite:

Content:
The Master of Science in Biochemistry comprises a dissertation based on the research results of an approved supervised research project in the field of Biochemistry, presented in a form suitable for publication.

 

Master of Science in Microbiology

SMIA090: Dissertation

Credits: 180

Co-requisite / Prerequisite:

Content:
The Master of Science in Microbiology comprises a dissertation based on the research results of an approved supervised research project in the field of Microbiology, presented in a form suitable for publication.

 

Doctor of Philosophy in Biochemistry

SBIA100: Thesis 

Credits: 360

Co-requisite / Prerequisite:

Content:
The Doctor of Philosophy in Biochemistry comprises a thesis based on the research results of an original, approved and supervised research project in the field of Biochemistry, presented in a form suitable for publication.

 

Doctor of Philosophy in Microbiology

SMIA100: Thesis

Credits: 360

Co-requisite / Prerequisite:

Content:
The Doctor of Philosophy in Microbiology comprises a thesis based on the research results of an original, approved and supervised research project in the field of Microbiology, presented in a form suitable for publication.

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