School of Life Sciences

Welcome to the School of Life Science

Welcome to the School of Life Sciences, which is located on the Pietermaritzburg and Westville campuses. The School has a staff complement of 144 academic and support staff; houses approximately 1600 undergraduate students; and boasts a postgraduate component of 514, engaged in Honours, Masters, PhD and Postdoctoral research.
Read More

Freshwater Eels Under the Microscope in Master’s Research

Ms Leawin Africa’s master’s research contributes valuable knowledge about African freshwater eels - an understudied group of migratory fish - and uncovers strongholds for vulnerable native species in South Africa. Africa’s work focused on migratory fish and river connectivity, identifying strongholds for native species at risk of extinction. Africa, of...
Read More

Soaring Beyond Boundaries for Birds and Biodiversity

Dr Rion Lerm’s PhD in Ecology marks the culmination of countless hours in the field and a steadfast commitment to understanding the natural world. Based at the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON) Ndlovu Node in Limpopo, Rion’s journey with birds and biodiversity began long before he entered the academic...
Read More

PhD Charts Genetics of Native Freshwater Fish for Conservation

Dr Mahlatse Mashaphu’s PhD in Biological Sciences is expected to contribute to the conservation of a native Tilapia species that is important to freshwater aquaculture but is under threat from hybridisation with introduced Tilapia species, resulting in a “vulnerable” rating on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists....
Read More

Dean & Head of School

Prof Ademola Olaniran

PA/Secretary:
Ms Xoli Shandu
031 260 1545
shandu@ukzn.ac.za

The School of Life Sciences is comprised of caring and enthusiastic lecturers ensure that students emerge highly employable, with a rich university experience and a first-class degree in the Life Sciences to their name.

This field of study encompasses all human, plant and animal life – ranging from microscopic germs to elephants and everything in between. Areas of specialisation within UKZN’s School of Life Sciences include:

Get in touch with us

If you don’t find the information you need, please drop up us a line and we’ll get back to you. 

Use the contact form to submit your query pertaining to the School of Life Sciences.

We look forward to hearing from you!