Established in 1998, the National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)-South 32 Awards, popularly known as the “Science Oscars,” are South Africa’s largest Science, Engineering, Technology (SET) and innovation awards.
They are endorsed by the Ministry and the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), with the Honourable Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, being the official patron of the awards.
Dr Lemley’s category of emerging researcher is based on contributions through research and the outputs over a period of up to six years from the commencement of the research career, predominantly in South Africa.
“My mentor, Professor Janine Adams, responded to a call sent out by the University to nominate suitable candidates, and submitted a nomination on my behalf, which initially put me on a nominee shortlist of 42 candidates for the Emerging Researcher category.
“Thereafter, nominations were evaluated by the NSTF panel of experts, and I was announced as one of 11 finalists” says Dr Lemley.
The winner/s of the award were recently announced at the 2023/2024 NSTF-South32 Awards Gala Dinner, during a parallel event hosted in both Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Dr Lemley was flanked by Dr Priscilla Mensah, the Director of Research Development and Dr Palesa Mothapo, Director of Research Support and Management, who also travelled to Cape Town to attend the gala dinner to offer their support and represent Nelson Mandela University.
“Despite not winning, I am still extremely proud to have been selected as a finalist for this prestigious award, particularly given the high calibre of the other nominees/finalists.
“The University, together with my mentor, have been central in providing me with the platform that has enabled me to pursue my passion of working in Environmental Sciences and contributing to the development of research, teaching, and learning.
“So, ultimately, any success I have is a reflection of the continuous support provided by the University” says Dr Lemley.
Serving as a researcher within the DSI/NRF Shallow Water Ecosystems Research Chair, Dr Lemley’s research focuses on estuarine and coastal ecology, with a particular interest in the process of eutrophication and harmful algal blooms.
“Much of my current research investigates the autecology of various harmful algal bloom species in South African coastal and estuarine ecosystems, with a view to aiding the effective management of those vulnerable and valuable ecosystems into the future,” says Dr Lemley.
An important aspect of the NSTF-South32 Awards is the showcasing of South African SET and innovation to the public, which includes the year-long engagement programme between the winners and school learners, called the NSTF Share ‘n Dare Programme.
Here top scientists, such as Dr Lemley, share their knowledge and experiences with young people, ‘daring’ them to follow in their footsteps.