I completed my undergraduate degree in Microbiology in 2023, during which I participated in a mentorship program that developed my interest in research and motivated me to pursue postgraduate studies.

In 2025, I began my journey at FABI as part of my BSc Honours in Microbiology. My research focused on the mycovirus SlaGemV-1 and its interaction withSclerotinia sclerotiorum. This study involved the artificial introduction of SlaGemV-1 into South African isolates using PEG/CaCl₂-mediated transformation with the aim of assessing viral stability across generations and evaluating associated phenotypic changes, including hypovirulence.

I am currently an MSc student in the Tree Protection Co-operative Programme at FABI. My research focuses on species delimitation within the genus Ceratocystis, where I am evaluating whether the biological species concept is appropriate for defining species boundaries in this group.