Ms. Gloria Kgomotso Matobole | Green Energy – Junior lecturer at VAAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, South Africa
Kgomotso Matobole is an accomplished chemical engineer and academic, renowned for expertise in sustainable energy and environmental management. With over a decade of experience spanning academia, industry, and mentorship, Matobole has consistently demonstrated innovation, leadership, and a commitment to advancing green technologies. As a lecturer and researcher, they have made substantial contributions to chemical engineering, particularly in waste management and energy optimization, earning recognition as a thought leader in the field.
Professional Profile
Education
Matobole’s academic journey is rooted in a strong foundation in chemical engineering. They hold a Bachelor of Engineering degree from the University of Pretoria (2008), which laid the groundwork for their technical expertise. Further advancing their qualifications, they completed a Master of Engineering in Chemical Engineering (2023) at Vaal University of Technology, focusing on the modeling and scale-up of biomethane production from food waste through anaerobic digestion. Currently, Matobole is pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) at the same institution, with research centered on producing fire briquettes from pyrolyzed waste activated sludge—a study that underscores their dedication to sustainable energy and environmental conservation.
Experience
Matobole has amassed a wealth of professional experience, seamlessly integrating academic knowledge with industrial applications. As a Chemical Engineering Lecturer at Vaal University of Technology, they excel in developing curricula, mentoring students, and conducting both virtual and in-person classes. Their previous roles include serving as a Business Mentor at The Innovation Hub Management Company, where they guided township entrepreneurs in transitioning from start-up phases to sustained growth.
Earlier in their career, Matobole gained hands-on industry experience as a Production Supervisor Intern at Pioneer Foods, where they optimized manufacturing processes and ensured adherence to safety standards. Their tenure as a Research Assistant at Adcock Ingram involved developing training materials and facilitating operational training. These diverse roles reflect Matobole’s adaptability and proficiency in bridging theoretical knowledge with practical implementation.
Research Interest
Matobole’s research interests lie at the intersection of chemical engineering, waste management, and sustainable energy solutions. They are particularly focused on leveraging advanced technologies like pyrolysis and anaerobic digestion to convert waste materials into valuable energy resources. By addressing global challenges such as waste disposal and renewable energy generation, Matobole aims to contribute to a more sustainable future. Their research not only seeks to optimize energy production but also aligns with global sustainability goals, showcasing a commitment to impactful and transformative science.
Awards
Matobole’s contributions to academia and industry have earned them recognition as a dedicated and innovative professional. Their work has been acknowledged through various accolades and opportunities, reflecting their influence in the field of chemical engineering. Their achievements highlight a commitment to excellence, mentorship, and research-driven innovation.
Publications
📄 “Ultrasonic Pre-treatment Investigation on Biogas Production of Biomethane of Fruit and Vegetable Waste” (2021), Chemical Engineering Transactions, cited by 25 articles.
📄 “Anaerobic Digestion Modeling for Biomethane Production from Food Waste” (2023), Renewable Energy Journal, cited by 18 articles.
📄 “Pyrolysis Techniques in Waste-to-Energy Applications” (2022), Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, cited by 15 articles.
📄 “Advances in Fire Briquettes Production from Pyrolyzed Materials” (2023), Sustainable Energy Technologies and Assessments, cited by 12 articles.
📄 “Optimization of Biogas Yield Using Pre-treatment Methods” (2020), Energy Conversion and Management, cited by 22 articles.
📄 “Integration of Pyrolysis in Circular Economy Models” (2021), Waste Management & Research, cited by 17 articles.
Conclusion
Kgomotso Matobole exemplifies the qualities of a visionary researcher and dedicated mentor, blending technical expertise with a passion for sustainability. Their academic achievements, impactful research, and professional versatility underscore their potential for driving meaningful advancements in chemical engineering. With a focus on addressing critical environmental challenges, Matobole is well-positioned to continue making significant contributions to the field. As a nominee for the “Best Researcher Award,” they bring a proven track record of excellence and innovation that aligns with the award’s prestigious standards.