We are delighted to announce that Professor Ryan Blumenthal from the University Of Pretoria Faculty Of Health Sciences has been named as a finalist in the prestigious annual National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)/South32 Awards. The awards, often referred to as the 'Science Oscars' of South Africa, recognize outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology, and innovation in the country.

Professor Blumenthal will be competing as a finalist in the TW Kambule-NSTF Awards in the Researcher and Communication Award categories. 

The Researcher Award acknowledges research contributions over a period of 6 to 15 years, primarily in South Africa. Prof Blumenthal is a senior specialist forensic pathologist and associate professor at the University Of Pretoria Faculty Of Health Sciences in the Department of Forensic Medicine. His expertise lies in the field of forensic medicine, with a particular focus on the pathology of trauma caused by lightning (keraunopathology). He has published widely in the fields of electrocution, suicide and other areas involving the pathology of trauma.

In addition to his research achievements, Professor Blumenthal has made noteworthy contributions to public awareness of science through his impactful science communication efforts. His book, 'Autopsy - Life in the trenches with a forensic pathologist from Africa,' became a best-seller in South Africa, and his documentary series, 'Lightning Pathologist,' reached an audience of over 2.2 million people.
The NSTF Awards gala dinner will be held on Thursday, 13 July 2023 in Cape Town and Johannesburg, with the event livestreamed on the NSTF YouTube Channel. 

We extend our congratulations to Professor Ryan Blumenthal on this well-deserved recognition and wish him the best of luck in the final round of the awards.