Durban University of Technology (DUT) Research Fellow Dr Suresh Babu Naidu Krishna has been named among the Global Top 2% Scientists for 2026, recognising his contributions to biotechnology and related scientific fields.
According to the ranking information supplied, Dr Krishna is ranked 1,339 globally in the biotechnology subfield, within the main field of Enabling and Strategic Technologies, in the 2026 single year listing.
His research explores the potential applications of biotechnology and nanotechnology in health and the environment. His areas of interest include algal biotechnology, antimicrobial applications, nanoparticles for biomedical use, and the identification and optimisation of bioactive compounds.
A key area of his work is the application of nanotechnology in antimicrobial research. His publications include investigations into the antibacterial properties of silver nanoparticles and the potential use of nanoscale technologies in diagnosing and treating urinary tract infections.
In a 2025 publication co-authored with Professor Vasanthrie Naidoo, titled Nanotechnology Revolution in Diagnosing and Treating Urinary Tract Infections, the researchers examine emerging technologies for detecting urinary pathogens and their potential applications in treatment.
This research is relevant to efforts to address antimicrobial resistance, which occurs when microorganisms develop the ability to withstand medicines designed to combat them. Investigating alternative approaches to infection diagnosis and treatment remains an important area of scientific research as drug-resistant pathogens continue to pose challenges for healthcare.
Dr Krishna has also been associated with the SA-UK Newton Fund Antibiotic Accelerator Initiative project, Harnessing Natural Product Diversity to Combat Multidrug-Resistant Pathogens, in collaboration with Professor Rosemary Dorrington of Rhodes University. The project explores the potential of natural products in the search for new approaches to tackling drug-resistant pathogens.
His broader research interests include micronanoplastics, plant biotechnology, medicinal plant nanoformulations, the development of nanoparticles for biomedical applications, and the isolation and optimisation of bioactive compounds to address non-communicable diseases.
The recognition adds to Dr Krishna’s record of academic and research achievement. His professional profile records an NRF-funded postdoctoral fellowship at the University of KwaZulu-Natal from 2012 to 2014, followed by postdoctoral research at DUT.
At DUT’s 2022 Research and Innovation Awards, he received the Gold Category award for Faculty Researcher of the Year in the Faculty of Health Sciences. He also received DUT Top University Publisher awards in 2016 and 2017.
In March 2026, Dr Krishna participated in the International Visiting Professor Program at Parul University in India. He received a Certificate of Professional Competence in Sustainability for his contribution to an international faculty development programme focused on sustainability and international engagement.
Reflecting on the recognition, Dr Krishna said: “This recognition is a meaningful milestone in my research journey. It reflects the importance of sustained research, collaboration and the pursuit of knowledge that can contribute to scientific advancement. I am grateful for the opportunities and support that enable me to continue exploring new possibilities in biotechnology and nanotechnology.”
Dr Krishna’s achievement comes as DUT continues to build momentum in research and innovation. In 2026, the University received the National Research Foundation (NRF) Focused Research Advancement Award for the third consecutive year, emerging as the top achiever among Universities of Technology in the category.
DUT has also improved its position in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2027, moving from the 1501+ band to the 1201 to 1400 band globally and ranking ninth among South African universities. The improvement reflects progress across the University’s performance indicators, including research.
These institutional achievements and Dr Krishna’s individual recognition highlight different aspects of DUT’s developing research profile. As the University advances its ENVISION2030 strategy, the work of its researchers remains central to expanding knowledge, strengthening scholarly contributions and exploring solutions to challenges affecting society.
DUT congratulates Dr Krishna on being named among the Global Top 2% Scientists for 2026 and acknowledges his contribution to research and scholarly publishing.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Tiyani Mboweni
