Mpho Tawana | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr Mpho Tawana, University of the Free State, South Africa

Dr. Mpho Tawana 🌿🧪 is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of the Free State (2024), holding a PhD in Environmental Science (2023) and an MSc in Agriculture (Animal Health) from North-West University (2018). With a strong background in microbiology and animal health, Dr. Tawana has experience in research, library services, and agricultural development. Their work includes studying tick-borne pathogens, Giardia species, and Cryptosporidium spp., with numerous conference presentations and awards, including a Certificate of Excellence at PARSA 2021. Passionate about advancing veterinary and environmental health, they combine academic rigor with practical expertise. 🐾📚🔬

Publication Profile

Orcid

Qualification

Dr. Mpho Tawana is a dedicated environmental scientist and academic achiever 🎓🌍. Currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of the Free State (2024), she earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Science from North-West University in 2023 🧪📖. Her academic journey includes an MSc in Agriculture with a focus on Animal Health (2018) 🐄🌾, and a BSc Honours in Microbiology from the same institution (2015) 🔬📚. With a strong passion for advancing knowledge in environmental and agricultural sciences, Dr. Tawana continues to make impactful contributions to her field, blending expertise in microbiology, animal health, and environmental studies 🌿🌟.

Experience

Dr. Mpho Tawana has made significant contributions across various sectors, blending practical fieldwork with research assistance. Their work has included supporting rural development projects, where they applied research to address real-world challenges. Dr. Tawana also served as a postgraduate assistant, demonstrating a strong commitment to advancing academic research. This combination of hands-on experience and academic support highlights their problem-solving skills and practical approach to addressing complex issues. Dr. Tawana’s diverse roles underscore their dedication to fostering growth and development through research and community engagement. 🌍📚💡🔬

Conference Papers

Dr. Mpho Tawana has presented several important studies on tick-borne pathogens and parasitic infections across Southern Africa. At the 20th Annual SAVEPM Congress in 2023, he explored tick morphology and molecular detection of pathogens in small ruminants. In 2022, he conducted a systematic review on Giardia species prevalence in humans, animals, and waterbodies in Africa, presented at the 4th International Congress on Parasites of Wildlife. Tawana also contributed to research on Cryptosporidium and Giardia infections in sheep and goats. His systematic review on tick-borne diseases in the SADC region earned him a Certificate of Excellence at the 49th PARSA Virtual Conference in 2021. 🦠🐑🦠🎓🌍

Research Focus

Dr. Mpho Tawana’s research primarily focuses on zoonotic infections, particularly those affecting both animals and humans. His studies include the genetic characterization, virulence, and antimicrobial resistance of pathogens like Campylobacter jejuni and Salmonella serovars, often within the context of the One Health framework. Dr. Tawana has contributed to systematic reviews and meta-analyses related to infections such as Cryptosporidium and Salmonella in various animal hosts and humans in South Africa. His work explores public health implications, environmental factors, and the complex interactions between human, animal, and environmental health. 🦠🐾🔬📊🌍

Publication Top Notes

Cryptosporidium Species Infections Detected from Fecal Samples of Animal and Human Hosts in South Africa: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Campylobacter jejuni from Slaughter Age Broiler Chickens: Genetic Characterization, Virulence, and Antimicrobial Resistance Genes

One Health Perspective of Salmonella Serovars in South Africa Using Pooled Prevalence: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Conclusion

Dr. Mpho Tawana is an exceptional interdisciplinary researcher whose work has significantly contributed to the understanding and management of zoonotic diseases and antimicrobial resistance. Their research not only advances scientific knowledge but also provides practical solutions to address these pressing global health challenges. Dr. Tawana’s expertise has been showcased through notable conference presentations, further solidifying their reputation in the scientific community. With a strong track record of practical contributions and impactful research, Dr. Tawana is a standout candidate for the Best Researcher Award. 🌍🔬💡🦠🏆

Research Excellence

Prof. Dr. Darinka Golubović Matić is an Associate Professor of Planning at Union Nikola Tesla University in Belgrade, Serbia. She has made significant contributions to the field of urban planning, with a focus on sustainable development, environmental assessment, and land use management. Her research delves into the impact of climate change on various environmental factors, including water and air pollution, and explores solutions for building sustainable communities.

Professional Engagement

In addition to her academic work, Prof. Golubović Matić is actively involved in professional organizations. She serves as a treasurer, board member, and ExCom member of the International Society of City and Regional Planners (ISOCARP). Her involvement with the Serbian Chamber of Engineers and the International Academy of Ethics further underscores her commitment to advancing the field of urban planning and promoting ethical practices in her profession.

Research focus

Darinka Golubović-Matić’s research focuses on urban planning and its effects on environmental and social dynamics. Her work explores the usage and impact of open green spaces, particularly during and after the pandemic, as well as urban planning’s influence on mobility and residential satisfaction. She investigates methods for managing land use in collective housing to enhance energy efficiency. Through studies in Belgrade and Novi Sad, her research addresses the intersection of urban environments, public health, and sustainability. 🌳🏙️📊