NRF 25 years: Dr Xolelwa Zulu

This year, the NRF is celebrating a major milestone in its history as it commemorates 25 years of Research, Innovation, Impact and Partnerships. It always gives us great joy to share the accomplishments and impact of the many students and researchers we have supported during various stages of their careers. We thank all participants for submitting their stories and hope you enjoy reading about their journey with the NRF.

Dr Xolelwa Zulu is a Manager for Research, Development and Innovation Strategic Programmes at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). She is a former DSI-NRF intern.

What has been your study/career journey: how did you end up where you are today?

I studied Chemistry at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, from undergraduate degree to PhD. I have always been curious about the world and how things work the way they do.

In high school, Physical Science had two subdivisions: Chemistry and Physics. I did just above average in Physics, but my Chemistry marks boosted my overall mark. It was a natural choice to continue with only Chemistry. When the opportunity presented itself to do so, I enrolled for a BSc (Pure and Applied Chemistry) at the then University of Natal.

The progression to my current role was an intentional one as I had taken the decision to pivot from research-to-research administration. The journey started when I immediately finished my PhD bench work and accepted entry into the NRF internship programme.

How has your affiliation with the NRF impacted your studies/career?

My career in research management started with the DSI-NRF Internship Programme 2013/14.

I was placed in the Technology Innovation Agency’s (TIA) Special Projects Unit in the office of the CEO. I was subsequently exposed to the world of innovation management in the National System of Innovation and the critical role played by the correct investments in the socio-economic landscape of the country, and especially the role of young people.

With this 12-month opportunity, my resolve to contribute to the strengthening of the ecosystem through the promotion of inclusive decision-making was reinforced.

I have since taken roles in research administration and management, science policy development and implementation, science diplomacy and scientific investment, monitoring and evaluation with the aim to participate meaningfully in the betterment of our society by harnessing the power of scientific research, development and innovation.

The trajectory of my career was initiated by my then association with the NRF. Had it not been for that opportunity, I am certain it would have been a very different life. I am grateful that I still work in the forefront of scientific breakthroughs and innovations, knowing the part I played in the background to facilitate those.

What is your area of expertise?

I now work as a research and innovation specialist at the CSIR whose mission is to touch lives, especially of South Africans, through innovation. My responsibilities include overseeing and supporting the development and implementation of the CSIR RDI Strategy. I lead and guide investment funding, effectively design and develop programmes, and efficiently align resources to the strategy of the organisation.

Why is your work/studies important?

The ability to create and deploy new knowledge in the form of technologies and innovations impacts the competitiveness of nations. The same capabilities enable opportunities to address national challenges such as unemployment, food insecurity, health, energy etc.

As a country, South Africa has moved towards a knowledge-based economy where technology, innovation, and new knowledge that emanate from research and development have become the cornerstone of economic growth. The rapid rate at which the convergence of emerging technologies drives the fourth industrial revolution necessitates that input technology, the development of technology and investments therein be at their most efficient. Not only does it affect efficiency, but also inclusiveness to create an equitable society.  

The role of science, engineering, technology, and mathematics is pivotal as they are universal enablers of transcending barriers, acting as levers for addressing challenges of poverty and inequality, and a gateway to realising the African agenda (AU 2063) and Sustainable Development Goals.

What are some of your proudest academic achievements?

In addition to my PhD in Chemistry, I have recently graduated from the University of Pretoria, with an MSc (Technology and Innovation Management).

I have also had opportunities to speak and contribute to:

• Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) – South Africa: Innovation Speaker Series, August 2023, Topic: Strategies for Building and Sustaining an Innovative Culture
• CenGen, Worcester – National Science Week, August 2023: Topic: Navigating a Career in STEM
• Technology Innovation Agency Youth Webinar, June 2023: Theme: Innovating Sustainable Solutions to Improve the Lives of South Africans: Accelerating Collaborations and Opportunities to Improve the Lives of Youth
• Moses Kotane Innovation Lecture Series, Topic: Public Funding of Research, Development, and Innovation in South Africa, July 2020
• Department of Science and Innovation: South Africa’s Women in Science Awards Webinar Series – Topic: Modern Mentoring in Focus: Supporting Women’s Science Careers, August 2020
• Featured in UKZNTOUCH 2020 – University of KwaZulu-Natal Alumni Magazine, Alumni Class Notes
• Board Partners and Board Academy: 60th Board Impulse Thoughts with Xolelwa Zulu Magwenyane, December 2022
• Panelist reviewer: l’Oreal-UNESCO For Women in Science Adjudication Panel July-August 2023

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