Professor Samkelo Malgas, an internationally recognised biochemist and NRF Y-rated scientist at the University of Pretoria (UP), was recently awarded the 2026 NRF Research Excellence Award for Early Career/Emerging Researchers.
The award recognises outstanding research performance in the Life Sciences, honouring his work in advancing enzyme-driven solutions for South Africa’s bioeconomy. Malgas is an associate professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology.
“I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this prestigious award. On a personal level, the award is a moment of quiet reflection on a journey that has included uncertainty, long hours, difficult experiments, rejections of manuscripts and grant proposals, and the constant need to balance research, teaching, supervision, and life beyond academia.
“It reminds me that progress in science is rarely a straight line; it is built through persistence, learning from setbacks, and remaining curious even when the path forward is not immediately clear.
“I am also mindful that this recognition belongs to more than me. It reflects the guidance of my mentors, the trust of my collaborators, the hard work of my students and research team, and the unwavering support of my family and friends,” an elated Malgas said.
“Professionally, I see this recognition as a spotlight on the work of my research group and our broader efforts to advance enzyme biotechnology, biomass valorisation and sustainable biorefinery approaches for South Africa’s bioeconomy.
“I hope it will draw greater attention to our research and open doors to new collaborations, funding opportunities and partnerships that can help us translate fundamental science into practical, impactful solutions.
“As an emerging researcher, I regard the award as both an encouragement and a responsibility: to continue building an inclusive and productive research environment, to mentor the next generation of scientists, and to contribute to research that creates value for society, industry, and the environment.
“I am especially grateful to the University and the Faculty for providing an enabling environment to do my research,” Malgas concluded.
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