Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria

02/10/2026

🧬 A new chapter in scientific discovery! The Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences officially launched the Illumina MiSeq i100 Sequencing Facility in the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences opening new possibilities for advanced genomic research and innovation.

The future of science is being sequenced at NAS. 🔬🌱

02/10/2026

In a new study published in Communications Biology, Simon Tawich, Chris Weldon, and their colleagues show that Trypanosoma congolense parasites manipulate tsetse fly sensory systems and host scent profiles to enhance disease transmission.

Harnessing these parasite-induced odour blends in field traps allows for the targeted capture of infected vectors, offering a novel strategy that can cut cattle trypanosomiasis prevalence by up to 40%.

https://doi.org/10.1038/s42003-026-10866-w

01/10/2026

NASEXCELLENCE 🎉🔬🏆 A future in science just got a little brighter! 🚀Tonight at the 46th Eskom Expo International Science Fair, the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences awarded two R45 000 bursaries to two deserving young scientists who will join NAS in 2027.

Congratulations to Daniel Ferreira from the Ehlanzeni Region and Paballo Nkwane from the Mopani Region! 🎓👏🏽 Your dedication to science has opened the door to an exciting new chapter and we cannot wait to welcome you to the NAS family. Here’s to the next generation of scientists, innovators and changemakers! 🚀🧪🌱

FlyAtUP EskomExpo EskomExpoISF

01/10/2026

🎉🔬🏆 A future in science just got a little brighter! 🚀Tonight at the 46th Eskom Expo International Science Fair, the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences awarded two R45 000 bursaries to two deserving young scientists who will join NAS in 2027.

Congratulations to Daniel Ferreira from the Ehlanzeni Region and Paballo Nkwane from the Mopani Region! 🎓👏🏽 Your dedication to science has opened the door to an exciting new chapter and we cannot wait to welcome you to the NAS family. Here’s to the next generation of scientists, innovators and changemakers! 🚀🧪🌱

FlyAtUP EskomExpo EskomExpoISF

01/10/2026

01/10/2026

🌱The Future of Food Conference 2026 brought together agricultural industry leaders, small businesses, farmers and key players across the food value chain to unpack the challenges and opportunities shaping South Africa’s food industry.

From producers and farmers to food scientists, businesses and consumers every part of the value chain plays a role. The conference created space for meaningful conversations on how we can strengthen collaboration, support businesses of all sizes and build a more resilient and sustainable food industry for South Africa. 🇿🇦🌾🍎

The future of food is not just about what we produce. It’s about how we work together to make the entire value chain stronger.

01/10/2026

01/10/2026

Congratulations to Professor Francis Peterson on completing two years as Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria.

Over the past two years, UP has continued to build on its strengths in teaching, learning, research and societal impact, while creating opportunities for students and strengthening partnerships locally and globally.

Thank you for your leadership and commitment to shaping the future of our university and the communities we serve.

01/10/2026

01/10/2026

Shout out to our newest followers! Excited to have you onboard! Futhi Mnisi, Alfenur Abu, Emmanuel Diagbouga, Alex Chisale, Martin Matthews, Sanele Mhlungu, Syabonga Phakathwayo Gumede, Ayanda Ndaba, Nyameko Zakesman Dlamini, Marco Sanka, Duané Kitching, Jane Tsharane, Tems Sphezi, Zakhele Mkhize, Mthiyane Nokukhanya, Mpongo Ka Zingelwayo, Siyanda D Prince Qobo, Obakeng Jasson, Smanga Xulu, T D Ramogale Polokwane, Snara Tlamama, Andile Ferguson, Minenhle Nhlakanipho S'thole Jobe, Elvin Ndabula, Mahad Ibrahim Calixiis, Melezwa Asamkele Mbatsa, Phumla N Zuke, David Andrease Sambi, Romanus Gawiseb, Celiwe Sikhosana, Motlatso Linah Selepe, Lydia Eloff, MakaNkazie Mantucie Ngema, Kinq Fass, Se Hlombe, Yonela Yoster Mapoma, Bafana Sithole, Mfaniseni Nkungwini, Nqubeko Sthabiso Maseko, Alice Letsie, Scientist Moehembo Erastoes, Selby Magodise Moswane, Sebenzile Shange, Vr Maisela, Mvelo Lindokuhle Gumede, Kawira Kivai, Nka Nyii So, Simphiwe Alex Majozi, Zokwenza Makhathini, Smiley Elias