SARChI Chair in Trophic Ecology ...

The Department of Science and Innovation, in partnership with the National Research Foundation, awarded Prof Sandy‑Lynn Steenhuisen the SARChI Chair in Trophic Ecology in April 2026. Prof Steenhuisen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Plant Sciences on the Qwaqwa Campus of the University of the Free State. Her research focuses on plant–animal interactions, including pollination systems, microbial communities in nectar, and the effects of disturbances such as invasive alien plants and climate change on ecological relationships. The chair strengthens the role of the Afromontane Research Unit in global mountain ecology and supports long‑term studies across Southern African mountain systems. The work has direct implications for biodiversity conservation, land management, and community livelihoods, and contributes to positioning South Africa as a leader in mountain research.

Contact details

T: +27 58 718 5330
E: sandysteenhuisen@gmail.com, steenhuisens@ufs.ac.za

Website: https://www.qpair.org/