Since J.J. Marion Meyer obtained his bachelor’s degree in chemistry and botany, plant and ecological chemistry have been his primary interests, leading often to much excitement. Most of his group's research at University of Pretoria, South Africa, has focused on the toxicity, allelopathy, and medicinal value of molecules biosynthesised by plants. He is fascinated by the survival strategies of desert succulents and the major impact some of their poisonous compounds have on desert ecology. His main current interest focuses on the formation of fairy circles by latex-containing Euphorbia species and their alarming decline in large numbers in the Namib Desert because of climate change. He was a Professor and Head of Department at the University of Pretoria and recently retired. He is currently Professor Emeritus at the University of Pretoria and appointed in a research position.