Nationality: South African

Institution: University of the Free State

Department: Department of Zoology and Entomology

PAST programme support: Degree support

Research title: Dietary niche breadth as a driver of morphophysiological trait evolution: Patterns, variability, and non-linearity in ruminants.

“I am currently completing my Ph.D. in Zoology at the University of the Free State, where my research focuses on how morphophysiological traits in ruminants evolve in response to dietary niche pressures.”

I grew up in Mahikeng, North West province, but spent much of my childhood on a game farm near Ghanzi, Botswana – an upbringing that deeply shaped my interest in wildlife and natural systems.

I explore the mismatch between species-level trait averages and individual-level variation to better understand the complexities of ecological adaptation. My work challenges linear assumptions in trait-diet relationships and emphasizes the evolutionary significance of intraspecific variation.

I’m also actively involved in my academic community. I serve on departmental committees, contribute to science communication efforts, and support student learning through teaching and demonstrating. I’ve presented my research at national and international conferences, including the Oppenheimer Research Conference, the Zoological Society of Southern Africa, and the International Congress of Zoology.

Outside the department, I am a passionate artist and reader. I often explore ways to blend scientific storytelling with illustrations. I am particularly interested in using visual media to communicate ecological concepts in engaging and inclusive ways. One of my long-term goals is to develop creative tools that make science more accessible to broader audiences. My journey so far reflects my deep commitment to curiosity-driven research and finding creative ways to bridge science and society.