Distinguished science and chemistry academic, Professor Vincent Nyamori has been awarded the prestigious fellowship (FRSSAf) by the Royal Society of South Africa (RSSAf) in recognition of his exceptional contributions to advancing science in South Africa.
Professor Nyamori, a distinguished figure in the field of inorganic chemistry and material science, has made significant strides as an educator, researcher and administrator.
Expressing his gratitude for this esteemed recognition, Professor Nyamori said it was an honour.
“It is a great honour to receive this special award. This Fellowship can only motivate me to strive forward, eager to continue doing my best for a better future.”
Professor Nyamori’s educational journey began with a Bachelor of Science degree from Egerton University in Kenya. He furthered his academic pursuits with Honours and Master’s degrees at the former University of Port Elizabeth in South Africa and completed his PhD at its successor, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University.
Following his doctoral studies, Professor Nyamori embarked on a post-doctoral research position at the University of the Witwatersrand under the guidance of Professor Neil Coville. In 2008, he joined the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), where he ascended from a lecturer to a full professor.
Throughout his career, Professor Nyamori has specialised in nanotechnology and nanomaterials science, catalysis, and green and sustainable chemistry. His research primarily centres on sustainable energy through the use of nanomaterials for solar energy generation and storage, as well as the application of sustainable carbon-based nanomaterials in catalysis and water remediation.
Professor Nyamori’s research aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those addressing clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, responsible consumption and production, and climate action. He advocates for creative and innovative approaches to tackle pressing environmental and economic challenges, emphasising a circular economy perspective.
“I believe everyone can positively contribute, and every input that advances science, regardless of the discipline, will certainly impact our world.”
Professor Nyamori’s research has yielded solutions for enhanced sustainability in the realm of chemical sciences. His contributions include novel catalysts, innovative water remediation absorbents, and advanced fabrication of solar cells with improved efficiency. His work has been published in over 150 peer-reviewed journals, accompanied by three book chapters. Additionally, he holds a patent and has delivered numerous invited lectures at national and international conferences. Professor Nyamori has supervised the graduation of 13 Master’s and 16 PhD students, including several from international backgrounds.
In 2011, Nyamori was recognised with UKZN’s Vice-Chancellor’s Research Award for early-career researchers, acknowledging his exceptional research and research-related scholarly activities.
He also serves as an Associate Editor for the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) Sustainability journal and holds a C1 rating from the National Research Foundation, signifying his status as an established researcher with international acclaim.
Professor Nyamori’s influence extends globally, as he held a visiting professorship at Portland State University in the United States of America. He has organised numerous local and international conferences, including the Inorganic Chemistry Conference, the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry Conference on Green Chemistry, and the National Convention of the South African Chemical Institute (SACI).
Professor Nyamori expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all individuals who have played a pivotal role in his professional journey, including peers, colleagues, students, and his family, for their unwavering support and belief in his capabilities.
