Einkamerer, Ockert Bernard (PhD)                                    

Ockert obtained his PhD in Animal Nutrition in 2018 at the University of the Free State. He started his career as Junior Lecturer in the Department of Animal Science (2006) at the same institution where he is currently a Senior Lecturer. Most of his research is focused on intensive ruminant nutrition, diet effects on mutton fatty acid composition (PhD) and feed quality. Ockert has published 19 peer reviewed scientific publications and 77 popular papers (ruminant nutrition and feeds related), as well as 27 congress contributions. He also manages the Jersey herd at the University of the Free State, acts as external assessor for tertiary institutions, actively participates as an AFMA technical sub-committee member, was editor of the AFMA Matrix and is a member of the Profesional Advisory Committee (PAC) for SACNASP. Ockert is also a council member of SASAS and consults for the formal feed industry regarding feed formulations (ruminants).

Josling, Charne (PhD - Candidate)                                    

Charne Josling completed her BSc degree in Animal Science at the University of Pretoria in 2009, after which she obtained her BSc Agric. Hons and MSc Agric. in Animal Science at the University of the Free State. During her post-graduate studies Charne started her career at the University of the Free State as Technical Assistant and Assistant Lecturer. In 2013 she set out to work in the industry where she held the position as Technical Advisor at the Brangus Breeders Society and thereafter Wildlife Stud Services. She has since been appointed as Lecturer at the University of the Free State from 2017 and is enrolled as a PhD candidate.

Mhlongo, Lindokuhle (PhD)

Lindokuhle Mhlongo completed his undergraduate and postgraduate studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg campus, where he earned his BSc in Animal and Poultry Science in 2016, graduating as the SASAS Best Final Year Student in Animal Science. He went on to obtain his MSc Agric in Animal Science, graduating cum laude in 2018, and subsequently completed his PhD in Animal Science in 2023. His research interests span animal production, nutrition, and sustainable livestock systems, contributing to both academic knowledge and practical industry solutions. Dr Mhlongo is currently employed at the University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, where he serves as an nGAP Lecturer in Animal Science, actively engaging in teaching, research, and student mentorship while fostering collaborations within the broader agricultural sector.