Durban University of Technology - South Africa
Author Profile
Scopus
Early Academic Pursuits
Ms. Vuyolwethu Tokoyi’s academic journey began with strong roots in the natural sciences, completing her Matric Exemption in 2012 from Templeton High School with key subjects including Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences. Her higher education path advanced through the University of Fort Hare, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Geology (2013–2015) and later a Bachelor of Chemistry Honours (Cum Laude) in 2016. Her early research focused on transition metal dithiocarbamate complexes, combining elements of Chemical Physics and Physical Chemistry, particularly in the study of molecular structure and bonding through bipyridine adducts. Her consistent academic excellence was recognized with prestigious scholarships, including National Research Foundation (NRF) awards at both Honours and Master’s levels.
Professional Endeavors
Ms. Tokoyi’s career trajectory reflects deep engagement with both academia and applied industry. From 2016 onwards, she served as a Tutor and Laboratory Coordinator at the University of Fort Hare and later at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, co-ordinating undergraduate experiments in Chemical Physics and Physical Chemistry. Her industry experience includes roles as a Sales Technology Chemist at Buckman Laboratories, where she operated water treatment pilot plants and conducted crystallography studies, and as a Research Scientist Intern at the Technology Innovation Agency, specializing in bioprocessing and submerged fermentation. Since May 2023, she has been a Research Assistant at the Institute of Water and Wastewater Technology, DUT, where she handles laboratory systems, nutrient analysis, and quality control. Her technical skills span advanced instrumentation including HPLC-RI, HPLC-DAD, AA, rheometers, and density meters, with broad exposure to ISO standards and SHE protocols.
Contributions and Research Focus
Ms. Tokoyi’s current Ph.D. research at the Durban University of Technology exemplifies her commitment to sustainable chemistry. Her project explores the Application of ZIF-8/Ionic Liquids for converting glucose extracted from sugarcane bagasse into biochemicals—a study grounded in Chemical Physics and Physical Chemistry, particularly catalysis, molecular interactions, and biomass conversion. Her earlier master’s research investigated antibacterial and anticancer properties of Co(II) and Mn(II) complexes, showcasing her focus on bio-inorganic chemistry and functional molecular design. She has also completed multiple certifications in Quality Assurance, Digital Literacy, and Mushroom Cultivation, reflecting an interdisciplinary and quality-focused approach to scientific inquiry.
Impact and Influence
Ms. Tokoyi’s influence extends across laboratory coordination, technical mentorship, and environmental research. She is recognized for maintaining high safety standards, implementing GLP protocols, and training new interns and contractors in laboratory best practices. Her proactive role in Chemical Physics and Physical Chemistry research and her capability to translate experimental results into applied industrial knowledge have positioned her as a versatile and impactful scientist. Her receipt of the James Moire Medal (SACI) in 2017 further cements her reputation for scientific excellence within South Africa’s academic and research community.
Academic Cites
While still emerging as a scholar, Ms. Tokoyi’s research in Chemical Physics and Physical Chemistry is gaining traction, particularly through her postgraduate research outputs related to metal complexes and biomass conversion. Her reports, SOPs, and laboratory documentation reflect a meticulous and scientific approach that contributes to reproducibility and data integrity. Her ongoing Ph.D. is expected to yield peer-reviewed publications with significant academic and industrial relevance, particularly in the fields of catalysis and green chemistry.
Legacy and Future Contributions
Ms. Vuyolwethu Tokoyi’s future in research and applied science is promising. Her career goal appears focused on bridging the gap between academic research and industry applications, especially in green chemistry, waste valorization, and bioactive compound synthesis. Through her background in Chemical Physics and Physical Chemistry, she is positioned to contribute to energy-efficient reaction systems, sustainable production methodologies, and interdisciplinary scientific education. Her commitment to mentorship, quality assurance, and innovation points toward a lasting legacy in both academic and technological domains.
📘Chemical Physics and Physical Chemistry
Ms. Tokoyi’s academic and professional work has consistently reflected core principles of Chemical Physics and Physical Chemistry, from her studies on metal complexes and catalysis to her bio-conversion research. Her understanding of reaction mechanisms, instrumentation, and physical properties of matter is embedded in Chemical Physics and Physical Chemistry, and she continues to leverage these principles in sustainable chemistry research. Her future promises deeper exploration and impactful discoveries in Chemical Physics and Physical Chemistry.
Notable Publication
Ferrocene-Based Bimetallic MOF Beads as Bifunctional Dye Scavenging and Degrading Materials
Journal: Chemical Engineering Transactions
Year: 2024
Citations: 0