Hilda Dinah Kyomuhimbo, a PhD student in the Department of Chemical Engineering in the University of Pretoria (UP)’s Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology, has been awarded the Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Award for her doctoral research. Her research project, under the supervision of Prof Hendrik Brink, entails incorporating nanocomposites with desirable properties to enhance the applicability of the laccase enzyme to treat effluents from industries, especially the textile, pharmaceutical and paper industries, to reduce pollution.

She explains that her research will focus on the immobilisation of the laccase enzyme on metal and metal oxide nanoparticle polymer composite beads for its application in biosensors and pollutant remediation. “My study aims to improve the lifespan and reusability of the laccase enzyme by attaching it to composites of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles and polymers.”

Laccase is a popular enzyme in degrading organic pollutants, she explains, but it is limited by its poor stability and non-reusability. Incorporating nanocomposites with desirable properties will therefore enhance the applicability of the enzyme in environmentally relevant conditions. The improved enzyme can then be used to treat effluents in industrial wastewater, thereby minimising pollution. “It will also be incorporated on a biosensor electrode to detect organic pollutants in freshwater systems such as rivers,” she says.

The Faculty for the Future fellowship of the Schlumberger Foundation is awarded to women from developing and emerging economies to pursue PhD or postdoctoral research in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields at leading universities worldwide. The eligibility criteria included the candidate holding an excellent academic record, demonstrating leadership skills, being involved in community outreach activities and having a track record in encouraging girls and women into STEM fields.

She describes her nomination for this award as a great delight as it alleviated the financial burden on her education and allowed her to focus more on her studies. “It also means my hard work has not gone unnoticed,” she explains. “The fellowship comes with mentorship and networking opportunities through conferences and with other fellows, which are invaluable opportunities for collaboration and my career growth.”

Hilda, who completed her undergraduate studies at the Makerere University in Uganda, and her master’s studies at the University of Nairobi in Kenya, chose to pursue her doctoral studies at the University of Pretoria as the Department of Chemical Engineering is ranked among the best in Africa, with notable researchers of profound expertise. “They have well-equipped laboratories that provide a conducive research environment,” she concludes.