Prof Kulsum Kondiah, the vice dean of teaching and learning in the Faculty of Science and an associate professor in the Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology at the University of Johannesburg, is a beacon of innovation in her field. With a PhD in Microbiology from the University of the Free State and over 15 years of experience in academia, she balances multiple roles as a faculty leader, educator, researcher, and supervisor. Her work focuses on enhancing student success, transforming curricula, and deepening the societal impact of science. In the classroom, she teaches Biochemistry and Immunology, guiding students from undergraduate to postgraduate levels with a commitment to excellence and a curiosity-driven approach to learning. Her research centres on developing nano-based rapid detection assays for water-borne pathogens—innovations that provide early warning systems to safeguard public health, particularly in low-resource communities. As a supervisor, she has trained and mentored numerous postgraduate students, many of whom have gone on to successful scientific careers. She is also a patent holder and co-inventor, dedicated to translating research into real-world solutions. Guided by the philosophy that “helping others shine only makes my own light grow brighter,” Kondiah leads with empathy and purpose. Her best advice remains profound yet straightforward: “Don’t carry someone else’s pressure as your own.”
QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD in Microbiology, University of the Free State
- Master’s degree (MSc) in Microbiology, University of the Free State
- Bachelor of Science (BSc) Honours in Microbiology and Biochemistry, University of the Free State
- Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biological Sciences, University of the Free State
ACHIEVEMENTS
I am most proud of my postgraduate students who have graduated and gone on to succeed in their own professional journeys. I am also proud of my achievements as a researcher and supervisor, particularly being a patent holder and having the opportunity to co-invent and publish alongside my students.
