Prof Zinhle Buthelezi

As an experimental physicist working in high energy nuclear and particle physics, my research entails studying the physics of strongly interacting matter at the highest energy densities, currently attainable in the laboratory, in which an extreme phase of matter called the quark-gluon plasma (QGP) is formed.

This kind of research requires large-scale facilities not available in South Africa but, can be accessed from other facilities through mobility funding provided by the DSI/NRF through the SA-CERN Programme. In our case, my colleagues and I conduct our research utilizing the CERN Large Hadron Collider (LHC) in Geneva, Switzerland, where we are involved and contribute to the ALICE (A Large Ion Collider Experiment) collaboration. I am the coordinator/team leader of the ALICE programme in South Africa.    

In addition to conducting research, my contribution to the organisation is to bring back the knowledge and skills by sharing/transferring it to colleagues; training postgraduate students (MSc, PhD, including BSc Hon), and mentoring Postdoctoral fellows and interns as well as inspiring high-school learners and teachers through outreach. Part of this requires developing local infrastructure, which can be used as a platform to expose others to cutting-edge technologies.

As a leader exposed to the best infrastructures locally and internationally, one of the overarching goals is to leverage opportunities to transfer scarce skills related to new and emerging technologies and to contribute to the South African scientific community.

I have been employed by NRF-iThemba LABS since February 2000.

What inspired you to become the leader that you are today?

That is a tough one! It’s a combination of factors: it was a natural progression because I am very passionate about physics, and I like a challenge!

Above all, the overarching reason is rooted in the cliché: there are so few female leaders in Physics, particularly in my field. So, part of my reason is rising above the challenges and smashing the “glass ceiling”. I want to inspire others to pursue their dreams and achieve their goals. I have this desire to contribute to the transformation of a young person’s life through science. The NRF has given me a platform to do so.             

What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?

Building a career in my field meant finding something I enjoy and am passionate about, but I had to work hard to accomplish it. There were challenges along the way. However, I did not let them deter me from achieving my goals. Confidence and professionalism go a long way when faced with a challenge. Visibility is essential – be proactive and create opportunities. These are the foundations I would recommend to anyone.

Along the way, I learned to recognise my strengths and weaknesses, and appreciate collaboration and teamwork. These opened a whole new world of possibilities.

Stagnancy happens and is a reality. To overcome it one must continue being curious, and be willing to change trajectory. Be open to learning new things, embrace changes and take chances when they present themselves.

On a personal note, sometimes we need a helping hand. We should not be afraid to ask for help when we need it! It is not a sign of weakness.

Be the best version of the role model you would have wanted for yourself!