Bio: Associate Professor Alisa Govender holds an MSc in Chemistry and a PhD in Chemical Engineering in the field of Materials Science and Catalysis. Her scientific career began at Sasol R&D, South Africa where she spent 15 years within the organization building expertise in materials characterization and heterogeneous catalysis. She brings with her a wealth of knowledge across different areas of solid characterization, catalysis, leadership and mentorship.Within the department, she is involved with teaching and learning in inorganic and analytical chemistry. Her research focus is on heterogeneous catalysis with a strong focus on characterization and building structure-property/performance relationships. She brings expertise in electron microscopy, gas adsorption, X-ray diffraction and thermal analysis specifically in method development, data analysis and interpretation. Her research focuses on sustainable chemistry specifically focusing on CO₂ hydrogenation and conversion of biomass-derived feedstock into value-added chemicals.Associate Professor Govender has a deep passion for mentoring young scientists and chemists and developing their ability to ask and answer critical questions that lead to change.

Area of Expertise: Environmental Analytical Chemistry

Bio: Somandla does research in Environmental Analytical Chemistry with interests in sample preparation and determination of pollutants of emerging concern in both environmental, plant and food samples. Most of his studies involve development of new and/or advancement of current sample preparation techniques and analytical methods for application in trace analysis of pollutants in complex matrices. As a lecturer, he offers modules on chemical quality assurance and analytical chemistry with a special focus on chromatographic techniques.

Academic Interests: Physical Chemistry and its application to solve the industrial separation problems.