Professor, at University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa.
Nosipho Moloto is an accomplished researcher and academic in the field of Chemistry, specializing in nanoscience and nanotechnology. She holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of the Witwatersrand (2011) and an MSc from the University of Zululand (2007). Nosipho currently serves as the Director of the ARUA Centre of Excellence in Materials, Energy, and Nanotechnology at the University of the Witwatersrand. Her research focuses on synthesizing and understanding the chemistry of novel nanomaterials for applications in water, energy, biomedical, and sensor fields. A member of several prestigious academic societies, Nosipho has contributed significantly to the scientific community through publications, patents, and conference presentations. Her leadership and dedication to advancing nanoscience have earned her recognition, including awards like the 2014 Distinguished Young Woman in Science and the 2023 National Science and Technology Forum Engineering Research Capacity Development Award.
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Education 🎓
Nosipho Moloto’s academic journey is marked by distinguished achievements. She holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of the Witwatersrand (2011), where her research contributed significantly to the advancement of nanoscience. Prior to this, she earned an MSc in Chemistry from the University of Zululand in 2007, graduating with honors (Cum Laude). Nosipho’s educational foundation was further solidified with a BSc (Hons) in Chemistry in 2005, followed by a BSc in Chemistry in 2004, also from the University of Zululand. In 2018, she expanded her leadership and entrepreneurial skills by obtaining a Certificate in Entrepreneurial Leadership from the Wits Business School. Her strong academic background has not only shaped her expertise in nanotechnology but has also positioned her as a key figure in advancing research in energy, materials, and sensors.
Experience 💼
Nosipho Moloto has extensive experience in both academia and research. She is currently the Director of the ARUA Centre of Excellence in Materials, Energy, and Nanotechnology at the University of the Witwatersrand. Her previous roles include serving as Deputy Director and Full Research Professor at Wits University, as well as holding the SARChI Chair in Energy Materials since 2018. Nosipho has a rich history of working in high-profile positions, including a postdoctoral fellowship at MIT and a visiting researcher role at CSIR. She also lectured at the University of Johannesburg. Throughout her career, Nosipho has led several collaborative, industry-sponsored projects, accumulating over R50 million in funding. Her work has earned her national and international recognition, with over 100 publications, including book chapters, patents, and peer-reviewed journal articles. Nosipho’s leadership in cutting-edge research initiatives positions her as a key contributor to scientific and technological advancements.
Research Interests 🔬
Nosipho Moloto’s research is at the forefront of nanoscience, focusing on the synthesis and application of novel nanomaterials. Her group explores how these materials can be used in a wide range of applications, including energy generation, water purification, sensors, and biomedical technologies. Notably, her work involves the development of nanomaterials for energy applications such as hydrogen evolution and energy storage. Nosipho’s research aims to bridge the gap between fundamental nanoscience and practical applications. She leads projects exploring the catalytic properties of materials, such as metal-based nanostructures, and their potential for advancing renewable energy technologies. Her team also investigates the biomedical potential of nanoparticles, such as their use in drug delivery and diagnostics. Through these endeavors, Nosipho continues to contribute to both the theoretical and practical advancements in nanotechnology and materials science.
Awards 🏆
Nosipho Moloto has received numerous prestigious awards throughout her career, highlighting her exceptional contributions to science and technology. Among her most notable accolades are the 2014 Distinguished Young Woman in Science Award in Physical and Engineering Science and the 2023 National Science and Technology Forum Engineering Research Capacity Development Award. Nosipho was also selected by the Department of Science and Technology as a South African Young Scientist representative at the European School on Nanoscience (ESONN) in 2011 and later participated in the 63rd Lindau Nobel Laureates Meeting in Chemistry. In recognition of her research excellence, she has received the 2017 Friedel Sellschop Research Excellence Award and the 2020 ACS Pittcon Travel Grant. Her work in the field of energy materials has also been acknowledged through various fellowships and scholarships, including the SARChI Chair in Energy Materials.
Top Noted Publications 📑
Nosipho Moloto’s impressive publication record includes over 100 articles, book chapters, and patents. Her work has contributed significantly to the fields of nanoscience, energy materials, and sensor technologies. Some of her most recent publications include:
- Elucidating the local structure and electronic properties of a highly active overall alkaline water splitting NixCo1-xO/hollow carbon sphere catalyst
- Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy
- Volume: 80, Pages 137-150
- Link: Link to article
- Abstract/Focus: This study investigates the local structure and electronic properties of NixCo1-xO catalysts supported on hollow carbon spheres for efficient alkaline water splitting. The research highlights the catalyst’s active sites and their potential for enhancing electrochemical water splitting performance.
- Potential Gradient‐Driven Dual‐Functional Electrochromic and Electrochemical Device Based on a Shared Electrode Design
- Journal: Advanced Science
- Article ID: 2401948
- Link: Link to article
- Abstract/Focus: The paper presents a dual-functional electrochromic and electrochemical device based on a shared electrode design. The study focuses on the potential gradient-driven mechanism and explores its applications in energy storage and smart windows, providing insights into advanced device design.
- Effects of reaction pH on regular nanorods and hierarchically structured β-Ga2O3 and their isopropanol sensing capabilities
- Journal: Materialia
- Volume: 34, Article ID: 102101
- Link: Link to article
- Abstract/Focus: This paper examines how different pH levels during synthesis affect the structural properties of β-Ga2O3 nanorods and hierarchical structures, with a focus on their isopropanol sensing capabilities. The study provides insights into optimizing material properties for gas sensing applications.
Conclusion
Nosipho Moloto is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her exceptional research output, leadership in mentorship, and recognition both nationally and internationally. Her contributions to nanoscience, particularly in the context of energy materials and environmental sustainability, are groundbreaking. With a strong track record in both research and leadership, Nosipho exemplifies the qualities of a leading researcher. Expanding her engagement with public and interdisciplinary collaborations could enhance the broader impact of her work. Therefore, Nosipho Moloto deserves strong consideration for this prestigious award.