Page 18 - UKZN Foundation AR 2024

various contaminants as South Africa grapples with pollution in its river systems. Zebrafish have proven to be ideal sentinels for monitoring environmental health, providing early warning signs of potential ecological and human health hazards.’
The ZRF at UKZN, therefore, represents a significant investment in the future of South African science. As a member of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee of the International Zebrafish Society (IZFS), as well as a founding member of the Zebrafish African Network (ZeFAN), Niesler strives to facilitate access to this exciting model and international research field for more South African students.
By integrating zebrafish models into a broad spectrum of research, from toxicology to disease modelling, the facility is not only contributing to the global scientific community but also addressing local challenges with global implications, ensuring that UKZN remains at the forefront of scientific innovation.
As research and training at the UKZN ZRF continues to evolve, the potential for zebrafish to unlock new understanding in human health and environmental science grows ever more promising. These small fish are making a big impact, providing researchers with the means to explore the complexities of life, one experiment at a time.
If you are interested in funding the UKZN Zebrafish Research Facility and its research, email: foundation@ukzn.ac.za
IWAKI system for husbandry and breeding
Inside the UKZN Zebrafish Research Facility.
The UKZN ZRF team comprising academic, technical and postdoctoral research staff as well as postgraduate students and aquatic health veterinarians. From left to right: Prof Carola Niesler (academic staff), Prof Raymond Hewer (academic staff), Ms Celeste Clark (technical operations manager), Mr Mlondi Shezi (PhD student), Dr Gillian Taylor (aquatics veterinarian), Dr Alex Delport (postdoctoral researcher), Ms Siphumelele Ngcobo (Honours student), Dr Vianca Naidu (aquatics veterinarian), Mr Ebrahim Ally (principal animal house technician.
The zebrafish are making a big impact, providing researchers with the means to explore the complexities of life, one experiment at a time.
16 UKZN FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2024