Dr Rodney Hull, Research Laboratory Manager at the Pan African Cancer Research Institute (PACRI), has been awarded a C2 rating by the National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa.

This national distinction recognises Dr. Hull as an established researcher with a proven track record of impactful, high-quality science recognised by peers both locally and internationally. It is a milestone that not only honours his individual dedication, but also highlights the growing research excellence being cultivated at PACRI—an emerging continental leader in cancer innovation.

Dr. Hull is a key figure in PACRI’s scientific ecosystem, where he leads the operational and technical backbone of its research laboratories, supports the implementation of high-throughput molecular and precision oncology studies, and contributes to mentoring the next generation of African scientists. His work is deeply integrated into two flagship programmes hosted by PACRI, which form the foundational pillars and strategic building blocks of the Institute:

• The DSTI/NRF SARChI Chair in Precision Oncology and Cancer Prevention (POCP), and
• The SAMRC Precision Oncology Research Unit (PORU).

In addition, Dr. Hull is a South African team member of the global SAMBAI Cancer Grand Challenge—a $25 million initiative co-investigated by PACRI’s Founding Director and funded by Cancer Research UK and the US National Cancer Institute. SAMBAI (Societal, Ancestry, Molecular and Biological Analyses of Inequalities) is an unprecedented global research effort aimed at understanding and addressing the biological, social, and ancestral drivers of cancer inequities, especially in African populations and across the African diaspora. Dr. Hull’s involvement reflects the global recognition of his technical and scientific leadership, and strengthens South Africa’s role in this groundbreaking collaboration.

Commenting on the NRF recognition, Dr. Hull said: “I am truly honoured to receive this recognition. It reflects the collective efforts of an outstanding team at PACRI and our shared vision to build world-class cancer research capacity on the continent. This achievement inspires me to keep pushing boundaries and contributing to science that matters—especially for African lives.”

The University of Pretoria and PACRI celebrate Dr. Hull’s NRF C2 rating as a powerful endorsement of both individual excellence and institutional momentum. His continued contributions reaffirm PACRI’s position as a hub of innovation, transformation, and global collaboration in the fight against cancer.