Prof Emmanuel Iwuoha’s legacy transforms lives through nanoscience
Prof Emmanuel Iwuoha and his team have developed ultra-sensitive biosensors for detecting breast cancer, TB and myocardial infarctions, potentially revolutionising patient care in resource-limited settings. “These diagnostic sensors are easy-to-use analytical devices, suitable for point-of-need applications in clinical diagnosis,” the University of the Western Cape’s (UWC) distinguished chemistry professor explains. “They are necessary for obtaining real-time information required for patient management at hospitals and doctor’s clinics.”
Iwuoha is the Chair of the DSI/NRF South African Research Chair Initiative (SARChI) for NanoElectrochemistry and Sensor Technology. At a doctoral level, he has created rare competencies in areas such as disease diagnostic biosensors, electrochemiluminescence, photovoltaic solar cells and lithium-ion battery materials. His research also involves creating functional materials from sustainable resources like solar cells, batteries and supercapacitors for use in sensors and clean energy generation.
His contribution to research capacity development is best exemplified by UWC’s Sensor Laboratories (SensorLab), which he founded in 2002. What began with one MSc student in a small laboratory has become a centre of excellence comprising 11 state-of-the-art laboratories, 65 postgraduate students and 12 academic staff members.
Over the past two decades, the facilities have enabled the training of more than 200 postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows. This organic growth served as an incentive for the construction of the ultra-modern Chemical Sciences Building at UWC, which houses SensorLab on its fourth floor.
Iwuoha’s impact extends beyond academia. One of his goals is to use nano-electrochemical technology to improve the quality of life in rural African communities by developing low-cost solar cells and disease diagnostic tests, underscoring his commitment to translating cutting-edge research into practical solutions. “I’ve always been driven to find ways that could benefit humanity or offer solutions to real-world problems, particularly in the field of human health,” he says, adding that he is excited about the integration of AI in sensing technology, energy generation and storage.
Recognised as an A-rated scientist by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, Iwuoha emphasises the importance of developing adequate research facilities. “Aspiring researchers should aim for adequate research infrastructure and laboratories suitable for in-house implementation of research plans,” he advises.
Iwuoha has been honoured with the NSTF-South32 Engineering Research Capacity Development Award sponsored by Eskom, recognising that his work pushes boundaries in functional materials and nano-electrochemistry while fostering a new generation of researchers and innovators.
Prof Claudia Polese gives aerospace engineers wings
Prof Claudia Polese, Head of the Aeronautical Engineering Stream at the University of the Witwatersrand, is pushing the boundaries of aircraft safety and longevity. “As an avid traveller, I appreciate that a deep understanding of fatigue-related phenomena on aircraft structures is critical to their safety.”
She is also the Advisory Aerospace Research Director at the National Aerospace Centre, and the Deputy Director of the ARUA Centre of Excellence in Materials, Energy and Nanotechnology. “Enhancing technologies can drastically affect an aircraft’s operative life, service intervals and costs.”
Polese is at the forefront of cutting-edge technologies that are revolutionising the industry, and under her guidance, numerous master’s and doctoral students have completed their studies in aerospace engineering, making their mark in research centres and industries worldwide. She has also established numerous multidisciplinary collaborations with local, African and global institutions. These partnerships have not only enhanced the research capabilities of her department, but also empowered her students to achieve several awards at international leading conferences and workshops.
“The most fulfilling experience is seeing these students grow into great engineers, researchers and well-rounded individuals,” she says.
She believes one of her most significant achievements has been the development of a fully-fledged South African Laser Shock Peening (LSP) Technology Demonstrator. This project, developed over the last 10 years, has provided invaluable hands-on experience for students, while positively impacting various industries, including power generation, aircraft maintenance, mining and biomedical prosthetics.
Polese’s outstanding contributions over the past decade have not only advanced cutting-edge aerospace technologies but also significantly shaped the next generation of diverse engineering talent. “Working in a male-dominated area of research was challenging, but overall it was a learning experience that taught me how to navigate tricky environments, increasing my determination to stand out and be recognised for my technical skills,” she reflects.
This experience has driven her to actively support and mentor the next generation of women engineers, significantly increasing the diversity of students completing their master’s and doctoral studies.
She says winning the NSTF-South32 Engineering Research Capacity Development Award is a wonderful recognition of her many efforts spent on supporting and growing South African engineers. Her advice to them? “It requires sacrifice. Don’t give up. The opportunity to be engaged in a sector that is always at the technology forefront, and to participate in the development of something unique, with an immediate impact on the world, will be extremely rewarding.”
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