The Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI) is pleased to announce Dr Neriman Yilmaz's appointment as Senior Lecturer, effective 1 May, 2024. Dr Yilmaz, a fungal taxonomist, brings extensive experience and significant contributions to the field of mycology. Her research focuses on combating food insecurity in Africa by identifying and controlling harmful mycotoxin-producing fungi. Together with Prof. Cobus Visagie, she leads the Applied Mycology Programme. She is a member of the National Grain Research Programme and has established partnerships with industries, such as Milk South Africa, to investigate mycotoxin-induced liver disease in dairy cattle. Her work aims to reduce hunger and poverty, contributing to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.

With a National Research Foundation Y-rating, Dr Yilmaz has secured various prestigious grants and published over 40 peer-reviewed articles. She actively supervises students and advocates for women in STEM through outreach activities like her "Fungi for Future" project. As the founding Secretary and Treasurer of the African Mycological Association (AfriMA), Dr Yilmaz promotes fungal conservation and sustainable practices across Africa.

FABI congratulates Dr Yilmaz and looks forward to her continued success in mycology.