Dr Edward Netherlands, Senior Lecturer and notable figure in the field of zoology and entomology at the UFS, was recently honoured with a nomination in the Emerging Researcher category of the prestigious National Science and Technology Forum-South32 (NSTF) awards.

“It really is a great honour. Having my efforts and contributions acknowledged at this level is truly humbling,” he expresses. The recognition not only validates his work, but also motivates him to push boundaries and leave a lasting mark in the field of blood parasites and their effect on African wildlife.

Advancing knowledge through research

Dr Netherlands’ impactful research is centred on blood parasites that infect ectotherms, particularly amphibians and reptiles. Over the past six years, he has published more than 20 peer-reviewed papers and contributed to shedding light on the ecology, systematics, and evolutionary biology of these parasites. His work has led to the discovery and description of more than 20 new species, significantly enriching the understanding of their diversity and evolution in the African context. Furthermore, his exploration of the life cycles of these parasites has provided valuable insights into their complex relationships with hosts and vectors, offering a new perspective on classification and ecology.

Implications for society and biodiversity

Beyond scientific curiosity, Dr Netherlands’ research carries implications for society and biodiversity. “My research on various blood parasites of ectotherms, which include species closely related to malaria and trypanosomes, contributes to a broader understanding of vector-borne diseases and their impact on the ecosystem. By studying these asymptomatic blood parasites and their interaction with wildlife, we can gain insights into the dynamics of these diseases. This knowledge has implications for wildlife conservation and public health, as understanding the ecology and transmission of these parasites is vital for developing effective strategies to control vector-borne diseases and protect biodiversity,” he highlights.

It really is a great honour. Having my efforts and contributions acknowledged at this level is truly humbling.

The power of collaboration

Dr Netherlands acknowledges that collaboration has been a keystone in his research journey. His partnerships with other researchers, institutions, and organisations locally and internationally have enabled comprehensive studies and data collection. “Working with colleagues from different backgrounds has enriched my research and facilitated the exchange of knowledge and ideas,” he says.

Dr Netherlands envisions a future where his contributions extend beyond individual studies, integrating diverse perspectives to address complex research questions. He inspires future researchers to explore the fascinating world of parasitology and its relevance to conservation and public health.

Advice for aspiring researchers

For aspiring researchers, Dr Netherlands emphasises the following: “Perseverance, collaboration, and pursuing passion-driven topics. Despite challenges, never lose sight of your goals. Seek opportunities for collaboration; this can enrich your research and open doors to new possibilities. Lastly, share your findings and knowledge with the broader community, as effective science communication is vital for creating a positive impact on society,” he concluded.