Dr. Thabang Maphanga — Environmental & Water Science Researcher Current Positions Senior Lecturer at the Institute for Water Studies (IWS), within the Department of Earth Science at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) (South Africa). Academic & Professional Experience Has more than a decade of experience in higher education and environmental research. Research Focus Dr. Maphanga’s research lies at the intersection of: • Remote sensing and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) • Environmental management and climate change • Water and air quality • Waste management in southern Africa Publications & Supervision Authored over 50 peer-reviewed journal articles in respected international scientific journals. Has successfully supervised multiple Masters students to completion and is supervising several PhD candidates and other postgraduate researchers. Supervision topics include climate resilience, invasive species, air and water quality, waste management, and environmental governance. Community Engagement & Professional Service • Actively involved in community outreach and science communication, translating research into practical solutions for local communities. • Participates in national and international scientific forums. • Registered Professional Natural Scientist with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP). • Member of the Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) and Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) Africa