22 January 2025
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Story Precious Shamase
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Photo Supplied
Profs Werner Nel (UFH), Ralph Clark (UFS ARU), Dr Elizabeth Rudolph (UFS), with collaborator Deborah Verfaillie (CEREGE), Elizabeth Carr and Bongumusa Sibisi (UFS Hons students), Profs Vincent Jomelli (CEREGE), Guillaume Delpech (GEOPS Paris-Saclay), and David Hedding (UNISA), Colby Weis (UFS MSc), and Arséne Druel (FRA).
The University of the Free State (UFS) Department of Geography is at the forefront of groundbreaking research into the paleoclimate of the Southern Hemisphere with a collaboration led by Dr Elizabeth Rudolph.
Collaborative effort to understand cimate patterns
Dr Rudolph is spearheading a collaborative project with the National Laboratory of Cosmogenic Nuclides in France(LN2C-CEREGE) and researchers from the University of Fort Hare and UNISA to investigate the sub-Antarctic islands’ climate history. Funded by the SANAP_NRF and NRF-PROTEA bilateral funding instrument, this research effort aims to enhance our understanding of climate patterns and contribute to global climate change predictions. The strength of the project lies on the expertise and specialised equipment shared between the different institutions.
A team of geomorphologists, geologists and climate modellers is meticulously reconstructing the glacial and volcanic history of two island groups: the Prince Edward Islands (South Africa) and the Kerguelen Archipelago (France). This reconstruction will provide insight into past climate conditions, ultimately improving future climate models and predictions of climate change's impact on the Southern Hemisphere.
Sharing research findings and inspiring the next generation
In September 2024, a colloquium at the Afromontane Research Unit facilitated the exchange of research findings between the South African and French teams. UFS Geography students also presented their work on Marion Island and Gough Island, contributing to the knowledge base.
An online symposium on 5 February 2025 will provide a platform for the team to present their continuing research on Southern Hemisphere climate change. Those interested can contact Dr Rudolph at Rudolphem@ufs.ac.za for more information.
The collaboration extends into April 2025, with Dr Rudolph and the team scheduled to visit Marion Island to further their research endeavours. This visit coincides with the 60th anniversary of the first full-scale scientific expedition to Marion Island, led by the UFS' Prof EM van Zinderen Bakker.
UFS Geography students' research adventure
Three UFS Department of Geography postgraduate students – Bongumusa Sibisi, Elizabeth Carr, and Colby Wiess – recently embarked on a research expedition in the Eastern Free State together with French and South African scientists. The group participated in a research showcase at the Afromontane Research Unit (ARU) on the Qwaqwa Campus.
"We presented our honours and master’s research and gained valuable insights from presentations on the Subantarctic islands of Marion and Kerguelen by other researchers," shared Elizabeth. The showcase emphasised the interconnectedness of these islands and their significance in understanding the Southern Hemisphere's climate.
Beyond academics, the team embarked on a challenging hike through the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, culminating in a climb up the Witsieshoek chain ladder route to the majestic Tugela Falls. "Despite the weather challenges, we thoroughly enjoyed the experience," stated Bongumusa.
"One of the highlights was the opportunity to ask questions throughout the hike, gaining valuable insights from the experienced scientists," added Colby.
This enriching excursion, funded by the NRF-PROTEA France bilateral grant, provided the students with firsthand exposure to fieldwork realities and ignited their passion for future research careers.
The UFS Department of Geography is committed to groundbreaking research initiatives and fostering the next generation of climate change experts. Its collaborative efforts with international partners are not only expanding our understanding of the Southern Hemisphere's climate but also inspiring future generations of scientists.