Our people
The people behind Optentia
Researchers and professional staff working together to advance human capability, well-being and sustainable development.
One collaborative unit
Research supported by capable people
Meet the academic and professional team that enables Optentia's work.
Leadership
Director of Optentia
BN
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Director
Prof Blessed Ngwenya
Providing strategic and academic leadership for Optentia's interdisciplinary research, partnerships and development work.
Academic team
Researchers
Our researchers contribute disciplinary and interdisciplinary expertise across Optentia's programme areas.
IR
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Researcher
Prof Ian Rothmann
JH
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Researcher
Prof Jaco Hoffman
VR
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Researcher
Prof Vera Roos
Developing scholarship
Postdoctoral research
Focused research capacity that strengthens the unit's scholarly work and emerging collaborations.
AE
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Postdoctoral researcher
Dr Amanda Erasmus
Professional services
The team that keeps the work moving
Administration, finance, communication, statistical support and postgraduate services connect Optentia's research with the people and systems it depends on.
LB
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Lynn Booysen
Office Administrator and Events Organiser
MM
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Marinda Malan
Financial Officer
AJ
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Anjonet Jordaan
Project and Communications Manager
EK
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Elizabeth Kriel
Statistical Consultant
KR
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Kele Ramagaga
Short Course Administrator
SH
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Postgraduate support
Soraya Harding
Postgraduate Administrator
Connect with the team
Find the right point of contact
For general enquiries, events, short courses or postgraduate administration, contact Optentia through the relevant staff member or the unit's contact page.