In celebration of International Women’s Day, the Durban University of Technology ‘s (DUT’s) Faculty of Applied Sciences proudly highlights the achievements of Dr Valerie F Masocha, a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Horticulture at DUT. She is under the mentorship of Professor Mack Moyo. A dedicated researcher in plant molecular biology, Dr Masocha’s journey is one of passion, resilience, and scientific excellence, highlighting the invaluable contributions of women in STEM.
From Zimbabwe to Global Research Excellence
Dr Masocha’s journey into science was shaped by her early experiences in Zimbabwe, where agriculture plays a vital role in food security. Witnessing challenges such as crop diseases and environmental stressors sparked her interest in plant genetics and sustainable agriculture. After earning her undergraduate degree in Agronomy from Midlands State University, she pursued a master’s in plant genetics and breeding in China. Her academic journey culminated in a PhD in Plant Molecular Biology from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, where she focused on grapevine proteomic responses to cold stress.
Groundbreaking Research in Plant Science
Currently, Dr Masocha’s research explores plant-microbe interactions, genetic characterisation of African indigenous medicinal plants, and bioinformatics. Her work aims to enhance crop resilience, promote biodiversity conservation, and support sustainable agricultural practices. By leveraging molecular tools, she contributes to developing scientifically validated herbal medicines and improving food security in Africa.
The Power of Mentorship and Representation
Dr Masocha acknowledges the profound impact of mentors and role models throughout her career. From undergraduate professors who encouraged her to explore global research opportunities to renowned scientists who guided her PhD and postdoctoral work, mentorship has played a crucial role in shaping her success. Inspired by female scientists in STEM, she now dedicates herself to mentoring young women, encouraging them to pursue careers in plant science and molecular biology.
Overcoming Challenges as a Woman in STEM
As a woman in a male-dominated field, Dr Masocha has faced gender biases, underrepresentation in leadership roles, and cultural barriers while studying abroad. However, her determination, resilience, and support network have empowered her to overcome these challenges. She encourages young women in STEM to believe in their abilities, seek mentorship, and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
A Vision for the Future
Dr Masocha’s future research aims to explore plant resilience in the face of climate change, advance the conservation of medicinal plants, and develop sustainable solutions for agriculture and healthcare. Her work continues to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and real-world applications, contributing to a more sustainable and food-secure Africa.
Advancing Women in Science
While significant progress has been made, Dr Masocha believes women in science, particularly in Africa, need greater representation in leadership and research opportunities. Institutions like DUT can support women in STEM by offering mentorship programs, flexible policies, and increased visibility for female scientists. She indicated that by creating inclusive spaces for women in research, DUT and similar institutions can foster the next generation of female leaders in science.
In commemoration of International Women’s Day, Dr Masocha is celebrated along with the many women in science who are shaping the future through research, innovation, and mentorship. Their contributions are vital in advancing knowledge, promoting sustainability, and inspiring future generations of scientists.
Her publications can be accessed here: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=1IydMrwAAAAJ&hl=en
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