Position : Senior Lecturer
Telephone : 035 902 6932
Email : mbongwah@unizulu.ac.za
Office : Biochemistry Dept, Science Building, KwaDlangezwa Campus
Biography:
She has been in academia for over two decades, holding different positions at different institutions. Dr Mbongwa has worked at Technikon Natal which became DIT then DUT, Natal University which became UKZN, North-West University, and now the University of Zululand for the Biochemistry and Microbiology Dept. She has taught Human Physiology for over 11 years, and now Mbongwa is back to her roots in Biochemistry and Microbiology. Dr Mbongwa has held positions the Principal Lab Technician, Research Speciality in the Metabolomics Platform, and a lecturer.
Lecture ‘s the following modules:
- 4BCH312, Recombinant DNA Technology)
Qualifications:
- MBA, 2020, University of KwaZulu-Natal
- PhD: Biochemistry, 2010, North-West University
- MMedSci: Physiology, 2003, Natal University
- BTech: Biotechnology, 1998, Technikon Natal
- NDip: Biotechnology, 1997, Technikon Natal
Research interests:
The area of pharmacognosy was the obvious path for Dr Mbongwa because she was born and raised in rural Mzumbe, South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. From the age of five, Mbongwa knew which root, bark, or leaf to use to bring relief or cure for common ailments. Once they acquired knowledge of how the body and microorganisms work, it was a natural progression to scientifically prove how those plants healed or brought relief to the common ailments in their community.
Their passion for scientific research is the driving force behind their academic journey. Hlengiwe believes that every question holds the potential for groundbreaking answers. Over the years, their research has revolved around non-communicable lifestyle diseases and pharmacognosy. She had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed colleagues and mentors. Dr Mbongwa has published impactful papers, presented their findings at international conferences, and contributed to the collective understanding of biochemistry, physiology, and pharmaceutical sciences.
Professional membership:
- Southern African Society for Human Genetics (SASHG) Member
- South African Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (SASBMB) Member