NWU Mahikeng campus welcomes top-rated researcher

Prof. Don Kurtz is taking up his new role as extraordinary professor at the NWU’s Mahikeng campus

Prof. Kurtz is based in the United Kingdom and is an A1-rated professor, the highest such rating in the research fraternity.

The appointment of an academic of his calibre underlines the campus's commitment to excellence.

“I would like to take this opportunity to welcome Prof. Kurtz to the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (FNAS), our campus and the NWU at large," says Prof. Marilyn Setlalentoa, deputy vice-chancellor for community engagement and Mahikeng campus operations.

“We have no doubt that his expertise will go a long way in raising the standard of teaching, learning and research at the NWU; something on which we place great emphasis.”

Prof. Kurtz's appointment is effective immediately and he will work closely with another world-class scholar, Prof. Thebe Medupe, in the field of astrophysics and at FNAS.

Prof. David Modise, FNAS executive dean, also congratulated Prof. Kurtz describing his appointment as a major achievement.

Meanwhile Prof. Frans Waanders, the acting deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, says it is clear that the community will benefit from Prof. Kurtz’s research work.

“I am looking forward to lecture, collaborate, discuss and enjoy a scientific life in interaction with students and colleagues at NWU,” says Prof. Kurtz about his appointment.

Prof. Kurtz is a past councillor and vice-president of the Royal Astronomical Society and has served on many international committees. He is frequently invited to speak internationally to both professional astronomers and to the public, typically presenting dozens of talks per year to diverse audiences all over the world on a wide range of topics.