Mentoring the next generation of chemical scientists in Zimbabwe
Dr Piwai Tshuma has been appointed Chairperson of the Department of Chemical Sciences in the Faculty of Science and Technology of Midlands State University, Gweru, Zimbabwe, from 1 August 2026 to 31 July 2029.
Her fields of specialisation include designing functionalised metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and other porous materials for sustainable applications, including catalytic CO₂ conversion to fuels and environmental remediation. Her current research focuses on solar-driven photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants using monolithic MOFs to address water contamination challenges.
How do you feel about the promotion?
I am deeply honoured and grateful for this appointment. It is a significant recognition of my contributions to teaching, research, and leadership.
What will this mean to your career?
It represents a major step in my academic leadership journey. It will allow me to contribute to shaping research, teaching, and capacity building at a higher level.
What will this mean for your workload?
It has added many administrative responsibilities. I will need to balance departmental leadership with my ongoing research, supervision, and mentorship commitments.
How can you put your unique personal stamp on this position?
I want to strengthen research capacity, support early-career researchers, and build partnerships that extend beyond the department.
What are you looking forward to achieving?
I look forward to strengthening the department's research output, mentoring the next generation of scientists, and creating an environment where staff and students can thrive.
Dr Piwai Tshuma in conversation with Ms Heidi Sonnekus (FAR-LeaF Programme)
