The HSRC is proud to honour this cohort of newly NRF-rated researchers from across various units within the Council.
HSRC CEO, Prof Sarah Mosoetsa, shared her pride and appreciation of their tremendous achievements.
On behalf of the HSRC, I would like to salute those of you who recently received National Research Foundation (NRF) ratings. This is a remarkable achievement that reflects your dedication, talent and unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge in the social sciences.
The NRF rating system is a rigorous and competitive process, and these researchers’ success is a testament to the exceptional quality of their work. Their contributions have enriched our understanding of critical social issues and have also made a profound impact on shaping policies and interventions that improve the lives of South Africans.
At the HSRC, we are deeply committed to fostering an environment that nurtures and supports research excellence. We believe that investing in our researchers is an investment in our future, and we are dedicated to providing the required support, including resources, mentorship and opportunities they need to thrive in their endeavours. Their achievements are a source of immense pride and inspiration for the HSRC, and we are honoured to have them as part of our research community. We are confident that they will continue to make significant contributions to the advancement of knowledge and the betterment of society.
We are immensely proud of our NRF-rated researchers’ success and look forward to their continued contributions to the HSRC and the social sciences. As trailblazers, their achievements should encourage young researchers to strive to reach greater heights in their research fields.
We would also like to acknowledge the support provided by their colleagues, family and friends in achieving their goals.
The significance of NRF ratings
The NRF stands as a cornerstone in South Africa’s research landscape as a champion of innovation and excellence. Central to its mission is the NRF Rating System, a critical evaluation that assesses researchers’ impact and quality within the academic and scientific community.
Individuals are rated primarily on the quality and impact of their research outputs over the past eight years, taking into consideration the evaluation of national and international peers. This process identifies researchers who count among the leaders in their fields and gives recognition to those who constantly produce high quality research outputs.
The rating process includes a comprehensive review and analysis of a researcher’s work, and considers factors such as publications, citations, and contributions to knowledge production. The resultant rating is valid for six years and categorises researchers as follows:
- A: leading international researchers
- B: internationally acclaimed researchers
- C: established researchers
- P: Prestigious Awards
- Y: promising young researchers.
Crucially, the rating system acts as a quality assurance measure, identifying and supporting top-tier researchers while also fostering a culture of excellence – an essential element for scientific advancement.
NRF ratings foster competitiveness, encouraging researchers to strive for higher ratings and elevated research productivity. Institutions housing NRF-rated researchers – such as the HSRC – benefit from heightened prestige and recognition, attracting top talent and solidifying their position as hubs for cutting-edge research.
Moreover, these ratings influence funding allocation, directing resources to high-impact research projects, maximising the benefits to society. Additionally, they propel international collaboration, elevating the global visibility of South African research and facilitating knowledge exchange.
NRF-rated researchers become influential mentors, contributing to a robust research ecosystem and inspiring emerging talents. Importantly, these ratings open doors for career advancement, leadership roles, and impactful policy contributions, ensuring the transformation of research into societal action.
In conclusion, NRF ratings significantly promote research excellence, inform funding decisions, foster international collaboration, and build a bridge between academia and policymaking. These ratings play a pivotal role in advancing South Africa’s research and innovation landscape, driving socio-economic progress.
Spotlight on the HSRC’s newly rated researchers
Dr Glenda Kruss: Championing innovation measurement
B2 NRF-rated researcher
Dr Glenda Kruss, the executive head of the Centre for Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators (CeSTII) at the HSRC, stands at the forefront of research on innovation and development in South Africa. With a Master’s degree from the University of Cape Town and a DPhil from the University of Ulster (1992), Dr Kruss brings a wealth of educational and research experience to her role and boasts an impressive NRF rating of B2.
Before joining the HSRC in 2001, Dr Kruss honed her expertise as an Associate Professor in the Education Faculty at the University of the Western Cape. Her research interests lie in the crucial area of science, technology and innovation (STI) measurement and indicators, where she meticulously analyses data and develops frameworks to assess the progress and impact of STI initiatives. Through her leadership at CeSTII, Dr Kruss plays a vital role in informing policy decisions and driving the country’s progress towards a knowledge-based economy.
Dr Kruss’s career has been marked by a dedication to advancing STI measurement, innovation policies, and fostering impactful research within the field of science and technology. Her notable achievements stand as a testament to her commitment to pushing the boundaries of STI indicators and fostering transformative growth in the realm of innovation and development.
With her dedication to rigorous research and insightful analysis, Dr Kruss is a true champion of innovation measurement, illuminating the path for a brighter and more technologically driven future for South Africa.
Dr Natisha Dukhi: advancing health science through research excellence
Y2 NRF-rated researcher
Dr Natisha Dukhi, a senior research specialist in the Public Health, Societies and Belonging research division at the HSRC, holds an esteemed NRF Y2 rating. Her research prowess extends across various domains, primarily focusing on nutrition, child and adolescent health, health promotion, and non-communicable diseases. She also has a special interest in health and artificial intelligence.
Dr Dukhi graduated in 2005 with a Master’s of Medical Science (cum laude) from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). Her diverse career spans more than a decade and encompasses roles as a medical scientist, lecturer in human anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology and nutrition at various universities in South Africa, and extensive involvement in community health and NGOs since 2009. In 2016, she obtained a PhD in public health from UKZN, propelling her into interdisciplinary inclusive research that addresses critical public health issues within the social sciences domain.
Dr Dukhi is an eclectic behavioural scientist who, in addition to her interdisciplinary inclusive research mentioned above, contributes to the global science vision that addresses important current public health issues within the social sciences domain. She has various affiliations including the South African Young Academy of Science, the African Academy of Sciences, the Public Health Association of South Africa and the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World SA National Chapter.
She is also a fellow and the president of African ChangeMakers South Africa, and a fellow of the Southern Africa and Africa Science Leadership Programmes where she plays an active role in promoting women in science, technology, education, arts and mathematics. In 2018, she was a BRICS Young Scientist participant, and a recipient of the Gro Brundtland Award for outstanding work in the field of public health and sustainable development.
Having accomplished her NRF Y2 rating, Dr Dukhi is looking forward to leveraging the next five years to amplify her impactful trajectory in research and academia.
Dr Steven Lawrence Gordon: a trailblazer in social science research
Y2 NRF-rated researcher
Dr Steven Gordon is a senior research specialist at the Developmental, Capable and Ethical State research division at the HSRC. He holds a doctorate in philosophy (2012–2016) from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), where he studied the intricate realm of public opinion research. He has a Master’s degree in population studies (2009–2010), a Master’s degree in social sciences (2005–2007), and undergraduate degrees in social science (2001–2004), all from UKZN.
Dr Gordon brings a wealth of expertise to the field of social science research, honed through years of dedicated study and practical experience. Prior to this role, he served as a post-doctoral research fellow (2016–2018) and doctoral research intern (2012–2016) at the HSRC, gaining invaluable insights into the research process and developing a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie within the field. His teaching experience as a contract lecturer at UKZN (2009–2011) and researcher (2007–2008) further solidified his expertise, enabling him to impart knowledge and inspire the next generation of social scientists.
The seeds of Dr Gordon’s research journey were sown during his doctoral studies at UKZN, where his line manager, Dr Benjamin Roberts, played a pivotal role in shaping his dissertation topic. Dr Roberts’ unwavering support and guidance proved instrumental in Dr Gordon’s academic and professional growth, enabling him to surpass even his own expectations.
Researchers at the HRSC confront numerous challenges in advancing their research agenda, including time constraints, resource limitations, and the pressure to publish. Dr Gordon acknowledges that juggling project responsibilities, administrative duties, and the demands of securing funding can force researchers to strike a delicate balance that, inevitably, affects the depth and breadth of their work. He emphasises that navigating these challenges requires resilience, effective time management, and institutional support.
He expresses gratitude for the support he received from Dr Roberts, who provided invaluable guidance and encouragement throughout his research journey. Dr Roberts, he says, “has excellent communication skills and I have always felt comfortable going to him with my problems and concerns”.
Dr Gordon takes pride in his novel contributions to his chosen field of study, recognising the positive feedback he has garnered from peers and mentors. He finds particular fulfilment in his work on collaborative projects and developing innovative methodologies. Having been a member of the South African Social Attitudes Survey (SASAS) research team for the past decade, Dr Gordon feels honoured to have made meaningful contributions to public opinion research in South Africa.
Dr Gordon’s journey as an NRF-rated researcher is a testament to his dedication, talent and commitment to advancing knowledge in the social sciences. His achievements serve as an inspiration to young researchers, demonstrating the power of resilience, perseverance and a proactive approach to learning. As he continues to make significant contributions to his field, Dr Gordon remains committed to fostering a supportive and nurturing research environment for future generations of scholars.
Prof Thierry M Luescher: champion of equitable education and transformation in higher education
C1 NRF-rated researcher
Prof Thierry M Luescher is the Strategic Lead: Equitable Education in the Equitable Education and Economies research division of the HSRC. He is also Adjunct Professor at Nelson Mandela University in Critical Studies in Higher Education Transformation and Research Fellow: Higher Education at the University of the Free State (UFS). Before joining the HSRC, Prof Luescher worked as institutional researcher in strategic planning at the UFS, as senior lecturer in higher education at the University of the Western Cape, and as researcher of the Council on Higher Education. He joined the HSRC in 2017 as Research Director. In 2024 he was awarded a NRF rating of C1.
His recent publications include: Universities, Society and Development: African Perspectives of University Community Engagement in Secondary Cities (with S Fongwa, N Mtawa and J Mataga, SUN Press, 2022); #FeesMustFall and its Aftermath: Violence, Wellbeing and the Student Movement in South Africa (with A Wilson Fadiji, K Morwe and others, HSRC Press, 2022); Reflections of South African Student Leaders, 1994-2017 (with D Webbstock and N Bhengu, African Minds/Council on Higher Education, 2022), Innovation Policy at the Intersection (with MBG Cele and others, HSRC Press, 2020), and Student Politics in Africa: Representation and Activism (with M Klemencic and J Otieno Jowi, African Minds, 2016).
Dr Tholang Mokhele: navigating geospatial frontiers
Y2 NRF-rated researcher#?2
Prof Luescher is a founding editorial executive of the Journal of Student Affairs in Africa, published in collaboration with the University of Pretoria, and the book series African Higher Education Dynamics. He is on the editorial boards of the European Journal of Higher Education, Makerere Journal of Higher Education and the Journal of College Student Development. He is a member of the International Association of Student Affairs and Services and the Consortium of Higher Education Researchers. He has received several international and national research awards for his work on higher education, student politics, and student affairs and services.
Dr Tholang Mokhele: navigating geospatial frontiers
Y2 NRF-rated researcher
Dr Tholang Mokhele is a senior research specialist in the Geospatial Analytics Unit of the eResearch Knowledge Centre (eRKC) at the HSRC. He holds a PhD in environmental science (geographic information systems) and an MSc in environmental science (remote sensing) (cum laude) ,both from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN).
Before joining the HSRC, Dr Mokhele was a demonstrator for geographic information systems and remote sensing courses at UKZN and also worked briefly as a research intern for the AIDS Foundation South Africa. Dr Mokhele has more than 14 years of experience in geospatial analytics in social and health sciences research. He has undertaken projects for government and international funders such as the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development; the Department of Human Settlements; the Department of Science and Innovation; the Department of Home Affairs; the Department of Health; the Department of Social Development; the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements; the Mpumalanga Economic Regulator and the Ford Foundation, as well as DFID, UNICEF, UNFPA and UNDP. His contributions with these organisations showcase his expertise across domains including spatial analysis and modelling, spatial statistics, geostatistics, small area estimation, accessibility modelling, geo-computation, automated zone-design techniques, data analytics, demographics and sampling techniques.
Dr Mokhele’s extensive publication record includes authoring or co-authoring more than 60 journal articles, books, book chapters, research reports, conference proceedings and policy briefs. He has presented and co-presented more than 30 papers at local and international conferences.
Dr Mokhele candidly acknowledges the challenges he has faced, particularly in navigating the NRF-rating criteria, which tend to favour university-based academics. Yet, these have not dampened his spirit. Instead, they have served as catalysts for innovation, encouraging Dr Mokhele to adapt his approach and seek alternative avenues to showcase his groundbreaking research.
The recent invitation to serve as guest editor of the journal Mathematics for a special issue themed “Advances in Geostatistics and Spatial Statistics: Methods and Applications” stands as a testament to Dr Mokhele’s standing in the field. This prestigious role reflects peer recognition of his expertise and his ability to guide and inspire the next generation of geospatial analysts.
Dr Zaynab Essack: championing public health research with ethical integrity
C2 NRF-rated researcher
Dr Zaynab Essack is a chief research specialist in the Public Health, Societies and Belonging research division at the HSRC. As a research psychologist, she is dedicated to addressing public health issues through a social science lens. She has a PhD in psychology from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) (2015) focused on health research ethics. Her work primarily targets the reduction of health disparities in low-income and middle-income countries with special attention to the needs of adolescents, women and sexual minorities.
Her approach to public health challenges is characterised by the development and assessment of interventions that resonate with communities affected by poverty and high HIV incidence. Dr Essack’s research has focused on adolescent sexual and reproductive health, advocating for improved ethical-legal frameworks for access to health services and through empirical research of interventions for adolescents.
She is a Multiple Principal Investigator on a study for community-based pre-exposure prophylaxis delivery for young people, and leads various qualitative components across the Centre for Community Based Research’s search portfolio. Additionally, her role in the initiation of a Master’s degree programme in health research ethics at UKZN underscores her commitment to enhancing research ethics capacity across Africa, particularly for social scientists.
Dr Essack is a passionate advocate of arts-based and community-oriented research methods, recognising their immense potential to effectively engage with and address socio-behavioural issues. Her commitment to these approaches has led her to pioneer innovative research techniques that have garnered recognition within the scientific community.
Dr Essack’s expertise in this field has also earned her a place on the South African National AIDS Council’s Prevention Task Team and the Biomedical Research Ethics Committee at UKZN, where she actively contributes to the ethical oversight of research and policy formulation. These prestigious appointments underscore her dedication to ensuring that research is conducted with the utmost integrity and that its findings are translated into meaningful policy changes that benefit society. Dr Essack’s unwavering commitment to arts-based and community-oriented research methods has enriched the field and made significant contributions to addressing pressing socio-behavioural issues. Her work serves as an inspiration to aspiring researchers and is a testament to the transformative power of research when it is grounded in community engagement and ethical practices.
