Bio
My scientific interest is in population genetics and phylogeography of plant pathogenic fungi and the plants they infect. I use Chrysoporthe austroafricana, C. deuterocubensis and C. cubensis as fungal models to test hypotheses about how plant pathogens evolved, how they spread from one area to another, and what the future impact of anthropogenic phenomena such as climate change might be.
I am investigating the population genetics of these fungi from various countries and continents, using molecular markers to infer statistics describing populations' outcrossing abilities, recombination rates and linkage disequilibrium, and gene flow. I also have a special interest in gene trees and coalescent theory as applied to these fungi.
An exciting era is about to dawn on forest tree and pathogen genetics, and I am proud and priviledged to be a part of it. As Prof. Michio Kaku said, we are moving from scientific discovery to scientific mastery, and I believe that the current efforts by FABI and its programmes will play a crucial role in realizing this dream.
Teaching
Current Courses:
(2014-) GTS354: Genome Evolution & PhylogeneticsPast Courses:
(2014-2015) GTS367: Advanced Population Genetics(2010-2013) GTS353: Population Genetics & The Evolution of Quantitative Traits(2010-2013) GTS366: Plant Genetics & Biotechnology
Information for prospective students
Any prospective post-graduate student is welcome to apply for post-graduate studies with me. However, please take note of the following requirements so that you don't waste your own time.
All students
Preference will be given to South African students, but that does not preclude foreigners from applying to study with me. In fact, I always have one or more foreign students in my programme.
BSc Honours
Prospective Honours students should apply to the Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology through the University of Pretoria's online application system. The Department then places Honours students with supervisors.
Prospective MSc students
Send me and email and attach your Curriculum Vitae, email addresses and telephone numbers of two referees (one of which is your previous supervisor), your Honours project report (SA residents), or a poster or presentation that you have delivered. If you have already published a paper in an ISI rated journal, attach that too. : You must be able to fund your own subsistence either through a bursary (attach evidence) or personal funds.
