Assoc Prof Dr. Florence Nareetsile | Strategic Leadership | Best Researcher Award
University of Botswana, Botswana
Professional Profiles:
Early Academic Pursuits:
As a dedicated researcher, Professor Florence Nareetsile embarked on her academic journey in 1992, showcasing her commitment to excellence. Her early research project on the synthesis of organometallic complexes marked a significant milestone, earning her the distinction of being the first woman professor in the field of Chemistry at the University of Botswana and in the country.
Professional Endeavors:
Her academic journey included earning a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Chemistry from the University of Botswana, an MSc by research dissertation from the University of Bristol, UK, and a Ph.D. from the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa. Her academic pursuits have consistently demonstrated a thirst for knowledge and a dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional research paradigms.
Contributions and Research Focus:
Her research portfolio is characterized by groundbreaking contributions in the design, synthesis, and characterization of inorganic and plant-derived materials. Her expertise includes the use of analytical techniques such as Voltammetry, Thermal Analysis, Spectroscopy, and Diffraction Methods. Her work has significantly advanced the understanding of inorganic chemistry, with applications ranging from drug discovery to water sustainability and green chemistry.
Accolades and Recognition:
Her outstanding contributions have been recognized through various national awards, including seed funding from the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC-Botswana) for investigating Transition metal complexes with anti-HIV and Anti-cancer properties. She has also received research awards from the University of Botswana Office of Research and Development (UB-ORD) for projects investigating the interconvertibility of Co-I and Cobalt II complexes, design of ligands, and the investigation of plant-based materials for medicinal and environmental management.
Impact and Influence:
Her collaborative spirit is evident through interdisciplinary research initiatives, fostering an integrated approach to problem-solving. Her research has not only expanded the frontiers of knowledge but has also translated into tangible benefits for society. For instance, her work on Moringa Oleifera has led to trials for wastewater treatment by the Water Utilities Corporation in Botswana.
Legacy and Future Contributions:
Looking ahead, Her committed to fine-tuning materials and probing them for further applications. Her research agenda includes addressing global challenges such as climate change, health, energy, and polluted air and water bodies. As a mentor and outreach advocate, she has played a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of scholars, inspiring curiosity and excellence among students.
Notable Publications:
A study of the removal of heavy metals from aqueous solutions by Moringa oleifera seeds and amine-based ligand 1, 4-bis [N, N-bis (2-picoyl) amino] butane
V Obuseng, F Nareetsile, HM Kwaambwa
75, 2012
Use of Moringa oleifera (Moringa) seed pods and Sclerocarya birrea (Morula) nut shells for removal of heavy metals from wastewater and borehole water
IW Maina, V Obuseng, F Nareetsile
49, 2016
Synthesis of mixed ligand ruthenium (II/III) complexes and their antibacterial evaluation on drug-resistant bacterial organisms
JTP Matshwele, F Nareetsile, D Mapolelo, P Matshameko, M Leteane, ...
20, 2020
Transition metal complexes with HIV/AIDS inhibitory properties
F Nareetsile, JTP Matshwele, S Ndlovu, M Ngaski
19, 2020
Synthesis and characterization of cyclopentadienylnickel (II) thiolates. Crystal structure of [(η5-C5H5) Ni (SC6H5)(PPh3)]
J Darkwa, F Bothata, LM Koczon
17, 1993
Solid state isomerisation reactions of some ruthenium complexes
FM Nareetsile, OPM Horwood, DG Billing, DC Levendis, NJ Coville
13, 2003
Bile acids as specific faecal pollution indicators in water and sediments
VC Obuseng, M Moshoeshoe, F Nareetsile
10, 2013
Physicochemical properties, crystal structures, antibacterial properties and in silico characterization of cobalt and copper metal complexes and their acido complex crystals …
JTP Matshwele, F Nareetsile, M Tebogo, O Mazimba, FP Masita, L Julius, ...
9, 2022
Metallo-Drugs as promising antibacterial agents and their modes of action
F Nareetsile, JTP Matshwele, S Odisitse
9, 2022
Crystal Structure of Pyridin-4-ylmethyl 4-Nitrobenzoate, C13H10N2O4
JTP Matshwele, S Odisitse, O Mazimba, F Nareetsile, LG Julius, ...
8, 2022