The Department of Mining Engineering in the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology is widely recognised for its cutting-edge research in rock engineering. Prof Francois Malan, the Department’s Function Head: Research, has spearheaded the strong growth in this focus area at the University over the past five years.

He is a longstanding member of the International Society for Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering (ISRM) and was a Board member for the period 2007–2011. He received the prestigious Rocha medal in 2001, and was invited to present the Franklin Lecture at the Society’s AfriRock Symposium in Cape Town in 2017, as well as the 29^th online ISRM lecture in 2020. The pinnacle of his involvement in this international society is his appointment, by the ISRM Board, as an ISRM Fellow, to be inducted in 2023.

This is an exceptional privilege that is only bestowed upon a few select individuals. It is the highest and most senior grade of membership of the ISRM, which is only conferred on individuals affiliated with the ISRM who have achieved outstanding accomplishments in the field of rock mechanics and rock engineering, and who have contributed to the professional community through the ISRM.

The induction of ISRM Fellows creates a group of experts that can provide strong support and advice to the ISRM, and can be called upon, as appropriate, for ISRM activities. Congratulating Prof Malan on his achievement, Prof Ronny Webber-Youngman, Head of the Department of Mining Engineering, explained that an ISRM Fellowship is a lifetime position that carries a clear recognition of an individual’s achievements. “This is a wonderful reflection of the Department’s leading research expertise in the field of rock engineering.”

The induction ceremony will take place during the 15^th ISRM International Congress to be held in Salzburg, Austria, from 9 to 14 October 2023.

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