Lindelwa Mpaka

I am an early-career, young South African black woman with a doctorate (PhD) in Microbiology, who is enthusiastic and passionate about research and teaching. Throughout my career, I have developed essential skills in various areas of biotechnology, molecular biology, and microbiology, which I utilise to address research questions. I have published several papers in DHET-accredited journals, presented at numerous local and international conferences, and secured research grants. Additionally, I have supervised eleven (11) honours (Amila Siyephu, Yonela Silangwe, Nosibabalo Mase, Ntombothando Matshini, Anda Tim, Andile Nkentshana, Asisispho Philile Mgijima, Nomfuneko Mlobothi, Nasiphi Mbambi, Aphindile Diko, and Chumisa Ndzanya) and six (6) master’s students (Pollen Zonke, Yonela Silangwe, Bongile Hopewell Ntuzela, Mfezeko Noxhaka, Masosoti Qumza, and Vusumzi Mfuduka) to completion.

I have been teaching at both undergraduate and honours levels. Notably, I have taught microbiology modules at the second year (MIC 221), and honours levels (MIC 512, 513, 514, 525, and 526). In 2025, I was part of the team that recurriculated the MIC 211, 212, 221, and 222 into MIC 213 and MIC 223