Dr Edwin Makhado is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Limpopo. His research focuses on the design and development of sustainable functional nanomaterials, including conductive hydrogels, cellulose-based materials, and metal–organic framework composites, for applications in water purification, electrochemical sensing, catalysis, clean energy, vegetable seedling production, and postharvest coating technologies. Dr Makhado has authored more than 50 peerreviewed journal articles, 10 book chapters, and three conference proceedings. His research has attracted more than 2,100 citations and has an H-index of 23. He has also filed three patents, reflecting his commitment to translating fundamental research into innovative technologies with societal impact. He has contributed to human capacity development by supervising 10 Honours, four Master’s, and one doctoral student. His research is supported by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those focused on clean water, affordable and clean energy, and sustainable innovation. In recognition of his research excellence, he received the Vice-Chancellor’s Research Award for Best Researcher in 2024.