Prof Carlien Pohl-Albertyn, who currently holds the NRF-SARChI Research Chair in Pathogenic Yeasts and serves as Professor of Microbiology at the University of the Free State (UFS), has been appointed as an Honorary Professor at the University of Kent, United Kingdom.

This prestigious honour recognises Prof Pohl-Albertyn’s significant contributions to a research consortium led by Prof Jennifer Hiscock of the University of Kent, who is also an affiliated professor at UFS. The consortium focuses on the development of novel chemical compounds with various applications. “This appointment acknowledges my contribution to the development of these compounds as antibiofilm and antifungal agents,” said Prof Pohl-Albertyn.

In her new role, Prof Pohl-Albertyn will spearhead antibiofilm and antifungal research as part of the consortium. Her responsibilities will include participating in research visits, facilitating student exchanges, and delivering guest lectures. She regards this appointment as a significant recognition of her expertise and collaborative efforts, which will further enhance her international profile and academic career.

Prof Pohl-Albertyn also emphasises that this recognition highlights the global competitiveness and high quality of the research conducted at UFS. “This appointment underscores our institution's ability to address both local and international issues effectively,” she remarked.

Research focus and career highlights

Prof Pohl-Albertyn's research within the Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry at UFS centres on pathogenic yeasts, particularly Candida albicans, Candida auris, and Cryptococcus neoformans. Collaborating with Prof Koos Albertyn and Prof Olihile Sebolai, she investigates the biology of these yeasts, their interactions with other pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, and their mechanisms of infection. “Our goal is to deepen our understanding, which we hope will lead to better treatment options,” she explained.

The standout achievement of her career is her appointment as NRF-SARChI Research Chair. “Through this initiative, I have been able to expand my research group and collaborate with colleagues to better understand pathogenic yeasts and address the scarcity of effective antifungal treatment options for these crucial but often neglected pathogens,” she said.

Prof Pohl-Albertyn also finds immense satisfaction in mentoring her postgraduate students, watching them grow “from timid honours students to confident and daring researchers with PhDs.”