Professor Delivers Inaugural Lecture on Organic Chemical Synthesis

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Professor Tricia Naicker’s inaugural lecture titled, The Symphony of Organic Chemical Synthesis hosted by UKZN’s School of Health Sciences was attended by members of Executive Management, Senate, faculty, students, alumni, and guests from various institutions in South Africa and beyond.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Health Sciences Professor Busi Ncama opened the ceremony, extending a warm welcome to all. She congratulated Naicker for her remarkable achievements and contributions to the field of organic chemistry. ‘Today, we come together to recognise and celebrate the remarkable achievements of one of our own,’ said Ncama. ‘Professor Naicker’s dedication, passion, and innovative research have not only advanced our understanding in her area of expertise but have also inspired many within our academic community.’ It was appropriate that the lecture took place during Youth Month, as Naicker is a young academic who represents the future of academia and research.

Dean and Head of the School of Health Sciences Professor Percy Mashige introduced Naicker, highlighting her impressive academic background and career trajectory. Naicker, who holds a BSc, BScHons, MSc, and PhD from UKZN, has made significant strides in synthetic chemistry and novel organocatalysts. Her academic journey includes postdoctoral research at Aarhus University in Denmark and various academic positions at UKZN, where she is currently the youngest professor and director of the Catalysis and Peptide Research Unit.

In her lecture, Naicker explored the pivotal role of chemical synthesis in creating biologically important compounds for pharmaceutical and medicinal research. She discussed its significance in developing new therapeutics and probing biological processes, emphasising the integration of advanced analytical techniques. The lecture showcased innovative methodologies to synthesise key compounds and the valuable lessons learned. It focused on three molecular scaffolds: pentacycloundecane, tetrahydroisoquinoline, and a pioneering beta-lactam, unveiling the critical junctures that have shaped her career. She also addressed the impact of her research on method development in the synthesis of biologically important intermediates and drugs, particularly antibacterials. In closing, Naicker encouraged emerging scholars to build their resilience and reinforce their dedication from an early stage.

Naicker has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Department of Science and Technology-Women in Science Award, the National Research Foundation (NRF) Excellence Award, and the Taylor and Francis-John C. Warner Early Career Researcher Prize. She was the first female editor-in-chief of the South African Journal of Chemistry and serves as the Vice-Chair for the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World, South African National Chapter.

With more than 100 publications to her name and a robust network of collaborators, Naicker continues to make significant contributions to the field of chemistry. Her active engagement with the academic community, which includes serving as an external examiner, peer reviewer, and guest speaker at conferences, underscores her commitment to advancing science and education.

Words: Nombuso Dlamini

Photograph: Supplied