Dr. Sphelele Sosibo, North-West University, South Africa
Dr. Sphelele Cyril Sosibo is a Senior Lecturer in Organic Chemistry at North-West University in Mahikeng, South Africa. With extensive research and teaching expertise in pharmaceutical chemistry, Dr. Sosibo specializes in drug discovery for combating bacterial resistance and Alzheimer’s disease. He holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Johannesburg, where he focused on molecular modeling of hydrolase inhibition. His research skills encompass synthesis, NMR, LCMS, and computational modeling, making significant contributions to publications on antimicrobial and anticancer compounds. Dr. Sosibo has supervised multiple graduate students, led various research projects, and actively contributes to academic and community outreach.
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Summary of Suitability for Award:
Dr. Sphelele C. Sosibo is an exceptional candidate for the “Best Researcher Awards,” as demonstrated by his extensive accomplishments in both research and education. His research on antibiotic resistance and bioactive phytochemicals showcases his innovative contributions to the field of pharmaceutical chemistry. Additionally, his strong record of teaching excellence, highlighted by the Certificate of Faculty Recognition in Teaching and Learning and multiple Certificates of Merit from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, reflects his dedication to education and student success. Together, these attributes underscore his impact as a researcher and educator, making him a deserving nominee for this prestigious award.
🎓Education:
Dr. Sphelele C. Sosibo’s educational background is a testament to his dedication and expertise in the field of chemistry. He earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry from the University of Johannesburg, where he focused on molecular modeling for drug discovery related to Alzheimer’s disease and antibiotic resistance. His Master of Medical Science in Pharmaceutical Chemistry from the University of KwaZulu-Natal involved the synthesis and characterization of novel ligands, showcasing his proficiency in organic synthesis and catalysis. Furthermore, his undergraduate studies, including a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Chemistry and an Honours degree in Chemistry, provided a solid foundation in the principles of chemistry, culminating in a mini-thesis on potential antimycobacterial candidates. This robust academic journey has equipped Dr. Sosibo with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute significantly to pharmaceutical research.
🏢Work Experience:
Dr. Sphelele C. Sosibo has a robust academic and research background, currently serving as a Senior Lecturer in Organic Chemistry at North-West University in Mahikeng, South Africa, since November 2022. He teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses while also conducting and supervising research focused on drug discovery. Prior to this, he held the position of Lecturer in Organic Chemistry at the same institution from January 2019 to November 2022, where he guided master’s and PhD researchers. His earlier experience includes a Lectureship at Durban University of Technology, where he taught analytical organic chemistry and supervised BTech research projects. Additionally, Dr. Sosibo gained international research experience as a Research Fellow at Uppsala University in Sweden and worked as a Research Assistant at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, contributing to organic chemistry research and laboratory management. His commitment to academic support was further demonstrated as a SI Leader at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where he provided assistance to students in General Chemistry.
🏅Awards:
Dr. Sphelele C. Sosibo has received several notable awards that underscore his excellence in teaching and academic performance. He was honored with the Certificate of Faculty Recognition in Teaching and Learning from North-West University in 2021, highlighting his commitment to high-quality education. Additionally, during his time at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, he earned Certificates of Merit in Environmental Analysis III, Materials Chemistry III, and Physical Chemistry II between 2008 and 2009. Furthermore, Dr. Sosibo received Dean’s Commendations for his outstanding academic achievements in his BSc in Applied Chemistry and Cellular Biology, reflecting his dedication and excellence in the field of chemistry during his undergraduate studies.
🔬Research Focus:
Dr. Sosibo’s research primarily revolves around drug discovery, specifically targeting infections caused by resistant bacteria and Alzheimer’s disease. His work involves theoretical and bench-scale applications of organic, biochemical, and microbiological techniques. He employs various methodologies such as molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and DFT calculations to investigate the interactions of bioactive phytochemicals and novel ligands with biological targets. Dr. Sosibo aims to develop innovative treatments for both communicable and non-communicable diseases, contributing to advancements in pharmaceutical chemistry.
Publication Top Notes:
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Dual targeting approach for Mycobacterium tuberculosis drug discovery: insights from DFT calculations and molecular dynamics simulations
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Novel linear diamine disubstituted polycyclic ‘cage’ derivatives as potential antimycobacterial candidates
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Understanding the Hsp90 N-Terminal Dynamics: Structural and Molecular Insights into the Therapeutic Activities of Anticancer Inhibitors Radicicol (RD) and
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Catalytic asymmetric carbon–carbon bond forming reactions catalyzed by tetrahydroisoquinoline (TIQ) N, N′-dioxide ligands
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Impact of Pyridyl Moieties on the Inhibitory Properties of Prominent Acyclic Metal Chelators Against Metallo-β-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae: Investigating the