Dr. Mankgopo Kgatle, a researcher at the University of Pretoria’s Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI) has been awarded the coveted C2 rating by the National Research Foundation (NRF), in recognition of her sustained contributions to scientific research, transformative mentorship, and trailblazing work in genomics, epigenetics, and nuclear medicine.

The C2 rating is a significant academic milestone, affirming the researcher’s commitment to advancing knowledge through impactful science. “This recognition validates the hard work and dedication I have invested in my field. It inspires me to continue striving for excellence,” she said.

The rating comes with increased opportunities to secure research funding and foster strategic local and international collaborations. One such example is the NuMeRI symposium, which drew esteemed global experts including Prof. Moura-Alves (University of Oxford and University of Porto), Prof. Kzhyshkowska (Heidelberg University), Prof. Venkatesan (Pondicherry University), and Dr. Fernando Martinez (University of Surrey). These engagements highlight the growing influence of African-based science on the global stage and the researcher’s role in forging interdisciplinary networks.

Among her most noteworthy achievements is her instrumental role in setting up a molecular biology laboratory at NuMeRI from the ground up. This state-of-the-art facility supports her leadership of the Basic and Translational Research (BTR) unit, which integrates molecular biology, genetics, immunology, and epigenetics into nuclear medicine – a groundbreaking shift in the scope of NuMeRI’s research focus.

Her work during the COVID-19 pandemic established NuMeRI as a research hub for pandemic-related molecular and virological studies, leading to significant publications and long-term collaborations.

She also initiated and led the first NuMeRI symposium, which has since become a catalyst for collaborative research across institutions in South Africa and beyond.

Driven by a passion for improving healthcare in Africa, her research is focused on leveraging next-generation sequencing (NGS) to explore the continent’s unique genetic diversity in addressing regional disease burdens. Plans to acquire an in-house NGS sequencing platform at NuMeRI promise to elevate Africa’s capacity for genomics research.

Collaborations with institutions such as Prof. Venkatesan’s bioinformatics training centre in India, and ongoing partnerships with local clinicians, position her projects at the forefront of translational science.

Her efforts are not confined to the lab. “My research has had a profound impact on the scientific community and healthcare in Africa, focusing on improving clinical applications and fostering capacity-building,” she said. This includes advancing genomic equity and creating platforms for emerging researchers through mentorship, symposiums, and community outreach.

“Mentorship is central to my academic philosophy,” she noted. She supervises students across multiple levels—from undergraduate medical students to PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers. Beyond academic supervision, she fosters collaborative teamwork, encouraging students to participate in grant writing, publications, and interdisciplinary experiments.

She also founded the MK Baswarutegang Foundation, which supports rural learners in pursuing academic and scientific careers. Through initiatives like journal clubs, side projects, and structured co-supervision, she continues to empower future scientific leaders.

Local collaborations with clinicians like Prof. Mike Sathekge, specialists at the Department of Nuclear Medicine at Steve Biko Academic Hospital and prominent scientists like Prof Tivani Mashamba-Thopson have enabled integration of public health and clinical insights into genomic and theragnostic studies. Globally, she works alongside respected scientists like Prof. Siamon Gordon, Prof. Moura-Alves, Prof. Hosana Rodrigues, and Prof. Kzhyshkowska, driving forward innovation in cancer and virology.

The NuMeRI symposium stands as a testament to her ability to bridge disciplines and borders, reinforcing collaboration as a pillar of impactful research.

To emerging scientists seeking NRF recognition, she offers this advice:

• Conduct impactful research that addresses real-world challenges.
• Build strong local and global collaborations.
• Seek diverse funding opportunities through bodies like NRF, MRC, PRF, and OMT.
• Commit to mentoring and community upliftment.
• Invest in training and professional development.
• Network actively through symposiums and journal clubs.
• Embrace challenges as growth opportunities.

Her C2 rating is more than a personal accolade—it signals a continued commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in African research. With an ambitious vision, dedication, and a deep belief in mentorship, she continues to shape the future of healthcare and scientific advancement on the continent.