There’s a new man in charge of the Faculty of Science at Stellenbosch University (SU).
Professor Burtram C Fielding, a molecular biologist and prolific researcher with the University of the Western Cape (UWC), has been appointed the new dean of the SU science faculty.
Specialising in the molecular biology of diseases such as viral infections and cancer, he was dean of Natural Sciences in the Department of Medical Biosciences at UWC.
He holds a PhD from UWC and an MPhil in Management Coaching (cum laude) from the Stellenbosch Business School, among other qualifications.
Fielding’s previous positions at UWC include as director of Research Development and professor of virology, also in the Department of Medical Biosciences, while serving as acting deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation from September 2016 to March 2017.
He also worked as a research fellow at the world-leading Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Singapore from March 2003 to February 2006.
He serves on various institutional and research-related committees at the institution.
Boasting a robust record of publication and presentations, Fielding holds various journal editorial and reviewer positions as well as professional board and scientific committee appointments.
He is study leader of PhD, MSc and BSc honours students and contributed to book chapters and peer-reviewed publications.
He is also a recipient of various scholarships and scientific and academic awards.
“My objective would be to enhance the faculty’s standing as a globally recognised hub for research excellence and innovation,” he said of his goal in his new role.
“Through strategic planning and fostering a unified vision I am committed to promoting the faculty’s long-term viability and cultivating an organisational culture that upholds values such as compassion, respect, equity, accountability and excellence.”
Prof Sibusiso Moyo, deputy vice-chancellor for Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies at SU, looks forward to Fielding’s contribution. “Prof Fielding not only boasts a solid research and teaching background, but has more than 20 years’ academic leadership in higher education,” she said.
“Coupled with a proven track record in fundraising, international scientific collaboration and successful transformation and social impact initiatives, among others, he offers the complete leadership skills set required to take the Faculty of Science to the next level, enhance the student experiences and promote interdisciplinary research.”
She added the university was also indebted to Prof Louise Warnich, outgoing dean, whose second and last term comes to an end in January. “During her decade of leading the Faculty of Science she played an important role in positioning the faculty as an international role player,” Moyo said.
“In this process she placed great emphasis on the support and development of the most precious assets of the faculty – the staff and students. Together with her management team she has made a significant contribution on several levels in developing and supporting the next generation of South African scientists.”
