Vuyolwethu Tokoyi | Materials Science | Research Excellence Award

Ms. Vuyolwethu Tokoyi | Materials Science | Research Excellence Award

Durban University of Technology | South Africa

Ms. Vuyolwethu Tokoyi is an emerging chemist whose work spans inorganic chemistry, bioprocessing, biomass valorization, and physical chemistry, supported by strong academic training and multidisciplinary research experience. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Chemistry at the Durban University of Technology, focusing on the application of ZIF-8 and ionic liquids for converting glucose extracted from sugarcane bagasse into value-added biochemicals. Building on her Master’s research on Co(II) and Mn(II) dithiocarbamate complexes with bioactivity studies and her Honours and undergraduate training in chemistry and geology, she has cultivated a broad scientific foundation. Professionally, she has gained significant experience as a Research Assistant at the Institute of Water and Wastewater Technology, a Research Scientist Intern at the Technology Innovation Agency, a Sales Technology Chemist at Buckman Laboratories, and a Tutor and Laboratory Coordinator at both the University of KwaZulu-Natal and the University of Fort Hare. Her expertise includes laboratory management, analytical chemistry, fermentation processes, biomass processing, and instrumental analysis such as HPLC and nutrient profiling. She has received several distinctions, including multiple certificates in quality systems, safety management, and digital literacy, as well as prestigious recognitions such as the National Research Foundation Scholarships and the James Moir Medal. Her growing body of work reflects a commitment to sustainable chemistry and impactful scientific innovation.

Profiles: Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Tokoyi, V. (2024). Ferrocene-Based Bimetallic MOF Beads as Bifunctional Dye Scavenging and Degrading Materials. Chemical Engineering Transactions.

Tokoyi, V. (Year n.d.). Potential Application of IL@ZIF-MOF Composites for Lignocellulosic Biomass Valorization: Recent Update. Chemical Engineering and Process Techniques.

Tokoyi, V. (Year n.d.). Should “Ionic Liquids” also be used for solid ionic compounds: Synthesis and characterization of p-anisidinium-based ionic compounds. Chemical Engineering and Process Techniques.

Tokoyi, V. (Year n.d.). Synthesis and antibacterial studies of p-anisidinium-based ionic liquids: Experimental, DFT calculations and molecular docking. Journal of Molecular Liquids.

Mr. Sam Grose | Chemical Engineering | Research Excellence Award

Mr. Sam Grose | Chemical Engineering | Research Excellence Award

Kampala International University | Uganda

Mr. Sam Grose is an emerging researcher whose work spans renewable energy, energy engineering, bioenergy, electrical engineering, and applied geology, with a growing focus on sustainable power systems in developing regions. He is pursuing a Master’s degree in Renewable Energy at Kampala International University, building upon a strong academic foundation that includes a Bachelor’s degree in Geology, IT Network Engineering studies, and technical training in computer science and electronics. His research experience includes analyzing the performance of Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) systems for solid waste–based electricity generation and evaluating the geomorphological impacts of saw-milling activities on landforms in Liberia. Professionally, he has contributed to the Liberia Petroleum Regulatory Authority as a Research Assistant and Intern-Geologist, where he supported petroleum regulatory data management, geological analysis, and report development. Additionally, he has worked as a science writer producing articles on geology and renewable energy and has held roles in national electoral processes, demonstrating leadership and public service engagement. His awards include a 50% tuition scholarship for his M.Sc. studies and sponsorship support from the Liberia Petroleum Regulatory Authority. Through his interdisciplinary expertise, Sam is committed to advancing sustainable energy solutions and contributing to environmentally responsible development.

Profiles: Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Grose, S. O., Abdulkarim, A., Eze, V. H. U., Sanusi, Y. (2025). An overview of methods and future research directions on the conversion of solid waste through biomass cogeneration and pyrolysis for electrical power generation. Discover Electronics.