Durban University of Technology (DUT) researchers, Dr Riona Indhur and Ms Caressa Munien have through their creative, distinctive and impactful research work showcased their unwavering commitment to making a difference as ‘research trailblazers’ of the next generation of researchers.
Both the charismatic young women researchers have proven their mettle by not only being recognised for their vital contributions to the field of scientific research, but also proving to be great ambassadors for more DUT young women to pursue careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).
Dr Riona Indhur, biotechnologist and postdoctoral research fellow at the Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology (IWWT) and Ms Caressa Munien, a Chemical Engineer and Doctoral Researcher with the Green Engineering Research Ground under the Department of Chemical Engineering at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) are proud winners at the 2025 National Research Foundation (NRF) Awards. Both were victorious in the Research Excellence Award for Next Generation Researchers category. Their victory was announced at the ceremony held at the NH Johannesburg Sandton Hotel in Gauteng on 07 August 2025.
Dr Indhur is currently a postdoctoral research fellow at DUT, specialising in nanomaterials, advanced oxidation processes, and sustainable wastewater treatment technologies. She completed her PhD in Biotechnology in May 2025, focusing on the synthesis and application of superparamagnetic iron-oxide-functionalised 2D nanocomposites for microplastic removal from drinking water and wastewater. Her research bridges chemistry, materials science, and environmental science, aiming to deliver cost-effective, high-efficiency solutions to critical water challenges.
When the news of her win broke, Dr Indhur said it was surreal: a mix of pure joy, gratitude, and pride.
“This award represents not only the countless late nights in the lab, but also the unwavering belief that research can drive real-world change. It’s an incredible honour to be recognised among the top emerging scientists in South Africa and to be considered part of the next generation of researchers who will shape the future of science in our country. This recognition reaffirms my commitment to advancing research with tangible societal impact, and I feel deeply grateful to the NRF, my mentors, colleagues, and family for their unwavering support,” she said jubilantly.
Dr Indhur described the NRF Research Excellence Award for Next Generation Researchers as one of the most prestigious accolades that recognises outstanding early-career scientists across all disciplines in South Africa, from the humanities to cutting-edge STEM fields.
“Only five researchers nationwide are selected each year, based on exceptional academic performance, research excellence, and societal impact. The calibre of competitors is extremely high, with each nominee representing the best in their respective fields. It was an incredibly humbling experience, as I stood alongside some of the most innovative and dedicated young researchers in the country,” she shared.
She was the Top Published Doctoral Student at her institution in 2024. She has also received a Top Achiever Award Certificate (2024); Mentorship Award Certificate (2024); and she actively contributes to scientific outreach programmes and community engagement.
Dr Indhur has published four peer-reviewed journal articles and has three additional manuscripts accepted in high-impact international journals. Other outputs include one book chapter and one conference proceeding.
In terms of her research, Dr Indhur indicated that her current research focuses on developing advanced, sustainable nanomaterial-based systems for wastewater treatment, particularly targeting contaminants of emerging concern such as microplastics and persistent organic pollutants.
“The two systems I am currently working on are photocatalytic and photofenton heterojunction hybrid oxidation systems. I am working on integrating advanced oxidation processes with low-cost, scalable treatment technologies that can be deployed in both urban and rural settings. This involves designing multifunctional catalysts, studying their performance under real environmental conditions, and ensuring that the solutions are not only effective but also environmentally safe and economically viable. Ultimately, the goal is to bridge cutting-edge scientific innovation with practical applications that improve water security and public health,” she highlighted.
Director of the Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology (IWWT) Professor Faizal Bux spoke of the excellent work produced by Dr Indhur in her research project. “Her enquiring mind and research skills will compliment her ability to develop into a scientist of note. Being recognised at the national level is certainly an accolade for Dr Indhur and IWWT. We are confident that she will make a meaningful contribution and further expand the boundaries of science in her field of research. We do wish her all the best in her research endeavours.”
Sharing his sentiments was her supervisor from IWWT, Prof Sheena Kumari. She indicated that this award is a powerful testament to her exceptional hard work and unwavering commitment, qualities that make her an inspiration to all who have the privilege of working with her. “As her PhD supervisor, I have always been impressed by her hard work and intellectual curiosity, which were evident from day one. Her tireless efforts not only produced exceptional research but also allowed her to complete her PhD in record time. She is the kind of scholar every supervisor dream of working with. Her research has already made a significant impact, and I am immensely proud of everything she has accomplished as a rising scholar,” she beamingly said.
Dr Indhur further shared that this competition has become an important milestone in her career, serving as both recognition of past achievements and a catalyst for future growth. It has elevated the visibility of her work, opening doors to new collaborations, networking opportunities, and potential partnerships with leading scientists and institutions.
Delving more into her exciting win was Ms Munien who’s passionate about the technical world of engineering. “Having been given this opportunity is a magical blessing to me from God, and reaffirms that I am indeed on my righteous path in my journey called life. It reflects who I am, my values, principles, strengths, my career triumphs thus far, and drives me to greater heights. This prestigious award and my professional career path collectively give me deep satisfaction and peace of mind, knowing that I am contributing to assisting the planet, the environment, and aquatic life to heal from all the sickness that mankind has spread over their anthropogenic activities towards remediation and sustainability. I wish to continue to positively influence the world while nourishing Mother Nature and her beautiful creations. I will forever praise God for this blessing,” she said triumphantly.
As a Process Engineer at SAPREF Refinery and Nalco Water, she has acquired industrial experience that uniquely positioned her to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application in water treatment technologies. Additionally, she participated in several projects as a Project Manager at Brainnest Germany Management Consultancy, where she collaborated with elite water treatment, petrochemical and project management professionals on a global scale.
Moreover, she also actively contributes and applies her expertise in the Green Engineering Research Group at DUT where her research focus area is in water and wastewater treatment, and developing advanced oxidation processes, which are critical in addressing the water-energy nexus crisis global challenges. Moreover, she has demonstrated her excellence in scientific advancement by publishing in prominent scientific journals and presenting her research at numerous reputable conferences, where she was honoured with Platinum Awards. Ms Munien’s research vision aims to continue making significant contributions towards water and energy sustainability, targeting the African Union (AU) and the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.
Ms Munien qualified with a Master of Engineering in chemical (Cum Laude) and has authored and presented at five conferences with proceedings and published three DHET-accredited papers in the Journal of Applied Science, Energy, Science and Engineering Journal, and Water Practice and Technology, available online. Furthermore, she has several additional research articles and review papers submitted for review, with the manuscripts in the revision process for publication.
As a Doctor of Engineering student at DUT, she is constantly striving towards quality publications and National and International conference proceedings that are highly impactful and, ultimately, contribute knowledge towards water and energy sustainability to meet the target of near-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Her current doctoral research, titled “Evaluation of a Solar Photoreactor for the Degradation of Emerging Contaminants from Industrial Effluent Using Modified Photocatalysts,” is a pioneering project at the forefront of solar-driven photocatalytic technology for water treatment. “This work directly addresses South Africa’s urgent need for energy-efficient and sustainable solutions to combat water contamination and scarcity,” she replied.
Additionally, her research contributes significantly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation and SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy), offering practical solutions that promote both environmental and societal well-being.
In terms of research, Ms Munien’s exceptional academic abilities, dedication, and passion for advancing environmental sustainability through technological solutions for water and wastewater treatment are undeniable. Her research focuses on developing advanced oxidation processes and photocatalytic degradation methods, which are critical in addressing the global challenges of water scarcity and pollution. Her combination of academic excellence and practical experience, having worked as a process engineer at SAPREF Refinery and Nalco Water, uniquely positioned her to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application in water treatment technologies.
Elaborating on how her win intertwines with ENVISION2030, Ms Munien shared that her research involves the constructive development of innovative technology and community engagement to enhance and improve wastewater for reuse and foster the sustainability of natural resources.
“Moreover, this research aligns with the Global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set forth by the United Nations for affordable and clean energy (#7), and clean water and sanitation (#6), which states that there must be universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all by 2030. The photocatalysis treatment process utilises (UV/Solar) light energy, which renders it economically viable. Therefore, the development of solar-driven photocatalytic technology for the treatment of wastewater and its industrial commercialisation has the potential to significantly limit the environmental impact on terrestrial and aquatic life, reduce human health risks, increase job creation, contribute to the knowledge base of water and energy sustainability, and assist in the agricultural farming economy which would elevate the availability of food sources. The adoption of this green technology into the water sector is very promising due to it being sustainable, nontoxic, energy-efficient, and environmentally beneficial,” she indicated.
Ms Munien highlighted that this prestigious award not only further aligns with her academic field of study (Water Treatment/Green Engineering) but also passionately aligns with her life values, principles, goals, and desires in a personal capacity. Her primary objective is the preservation of the planet, its ecosystems, and society, whilst promoting and contributing to the United Nations (UN) 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union (AU) 2063 Agenda for an efficient and sustainable future for all.
“My academic achievements give me deep satisfaction and peace of mind, knowing that I am contributing to assisting animal life, the environment, the planet, and future generations to heal from anthropogenic activities. Thus, I aim to lead with transparency, honesty, integrity, and respect whilst promoting equity, commitment, and compassion toward remediation, health, and sustainability for all,” she said.
Ms Munien has expressed her sincere gratitude to DUT’s Dr Emmanuel Tetteh: Senior researcher in the Green Engineering Research Group, for believing in her and her potential. “I acknowledge you, respect you, appreciate you, and thank you for your support, guidance, encouragement, and blessings. I wish we continually progress towards excellence in everything to desire and pursue. You were instrumental in achieving this success,” she said.
As her supervisor, Dr Tetteh shared that he had the privilege of witnessing her dedication and pioneering spirit firsthand, in her master’s and current doctoral research on solar-driven wastewater treatment systems, a project that holds great promise for real-world sustainable environmental solutions.
“Her achievement marks a significant milestone not only in her academic journey but also for the Green Engineering Research Group under the Department of Chemical Engineering, as she becomes the fourth recipient of this award from our team. This continued success highlights the innovative strength and impact of our research community within the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment at DUT. Your hard work and perseverance are truly inspiring. We are proud of you and look forward to your continued contributions to the field,” he echoed proudly.
Further on, Ms Munien also acknowledged her family, friends, and loved ones for all their positivity, love, and care. “You all were instrumental in achieving this success,” she expressed.
Pictured: Dr Riona Indhur and Ms Caressa Munien.
Waheeda Peters
