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• Identification and characterization of sequence variants from a de novo-assembled partial pan-genome of cactus pear (Opuntia L.)

• Tree Breeding Precision Platform

I hold a BSc degree in Genetics and Physiology from the University of the Free State. I completed BMedSc (Hons) degree at the University of Cape Town.  I am currently a Research Assistant at the Precision Tree Breeding Platform of the Forest Molecular Genetics Programme (FMG) at the University of Pretoria.

I am interested in the field of molecular biology and its applications across various disciplines. This has led me to gain valuable experience specifically within plant molecular genetics. I have previously worked at the University of the Free State (DSI-HSRC) as an intern in the Plant Molecular Genetics group. My main responsibility entailed developing microsatellites (SSRs) to analyze the genetic diversity of Opuntia ficus-indica and O. robusta. 

During my time at UFS, I gained experience in various molecular techniques such as Sample collection, DNA extractions, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Fragment Analysis. Data analysis included GeneMarker, R software and DARwin software in order to do statistical analysis and generate UPGMA and PCoA figures. This study led to a publication in the Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution Journal (see below).

My role at UP allows me to work on various tree species such as Eucalyptus, Macadamia and Pine. My current responsibilities include using microsatellites for clonal analysis (performing PCR, Genescan, GeneMarker and PowerMarker) and writing reports of the results. We use Monday.com and E-lab Journal project management software within the team.  I am fortunate to be part of a team that has very close ties to the tree and forestry industry with over 20 years of Scientific engagement.