I am currently busy with my PhD at the University of Pretoria. My project focuses on the evolution of xylogenesis in non-coniferous gymnosperms. The study of wood formation is an important biological focus due to the significance of woody plants in global carbon cycling and their emerging role as renewable resources in a green economy. I aim to generate near complete gene catalogues for cycad, ginkgo and members of the Gnetophytes, including Welwitschia, Ephedra and Gnetum, and investigate wood evolution in these lineages using an RNA-Seq, comparative genomics and bioinformatics approach. My PhD will integrate multiple scientific fields, including evolutionary, developmental and systematics biology, botany and biotechnology. This research will be one of the first to adopt an 'evo-devo' approach to wood biology, and will open up new research avenues in these economically and ecologically important species. 

Science has always been an important part of my life. I grew up in an environment where asking questions were more important than getting answers and where knowledge ruled supreme. For this reason I am continuing my studies in science. I want to generate knowledge and share what I discover and learn. Completing my postgraduate studies creates the perfect environment to live out this dream.