Ms. Siyanda Mazaleni | Spectroscopy for Biology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Siyanda Mazaleni | University of Kwazulu-Nata | South Africa

Siyanda Mazaleni is a passionate and driven South African researcher in the field of Medical Biochemistry, with a strong focus on molecular mechanisms and epigenetics in disease. Currently pursuing a PhD in Health Sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Siyanda’s academic journey demonstrates consistent excellence and curiosity, beginning with a BSc and BSc (Hons) in Medical Biosciences at the University of the Western Cape. With research touching on cardiovascular disease, toxicology, and pediatric kidney disorders, Siyanda is committed to using science to improve human health, particularly in underserved communities. Their work on DNA methylation, microRNAs, and gene regulation holds promise for understanding disease development at a cellular level. Beyond research, Siyanda has contributed to academia through roles in teaching and student support. With a growing list of publications and ongoing contributions to health sciences, Siyanda exemplifies the qualities of a future leader in biomedical research.

Professional Profile 

Orcid | Google Scholar

Education 

Siyanda Mazaleni holds a BSc (2017–2019) and BSc Honours (2020–2021) in Medical Biosciences from the University of the Western Cape. These programs built a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, immunology, reproductive health, biotechnology, microbiology, and laboratory techniques. Siyanda then pursued an MSc in Medical Science (Medical Biochemistry) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (2021–2023), completing a thesis on the epigenetic effects of the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON) on liver cells. Currently enrolled in a PhD in Health Sciences at the same institution (2023–present), Siyanda’s doctoral research focuses on genetic and epigenetic alterations in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in children with urological abnormalities in KwaZulu-Natal. This educational pathway highlights a deep commitment to health-focused research, with a strong blend of theoretical knowledge and practical research skills. Siyanda’s academic journey showcases a seamless progression into advanced biomedical research with societal impact.

 Experience 

Siyanda Mazaleni has acquired diverse academic and support experience across roles that complement their research work. From 2021 to 2025, Siyanda served as a Demonstrator in Medical Biochemistry at UKZN, where they provided hands-on laboratory instruction and academic guidance to undergraduate students. Additionally, Siyanda worked as a Student Assistant at the Howard College Libraries (2022–2024), supporting academic resource navigation and student engagement. In 2025, Siyanda took on a leadership role as a Facilitator in the College of Health Sciences, contributing to academic mentoring, program coordination, and student support initiatives. These experiences reflect Siyanda’s strong interpersonal and communication skills, as well as a passion for empowering others through education. Coupled with research involvement, this hands-on experience in academic environments enhances Siyanda’s capacity as both a researcher and a mentor. It also shows dedication to holistic growth in the academic and scientific communities.

Awards and Honors

While specific awards and honors have not been listed in the provided information, Siyanda Mazaleni’s academic and research achievements reflect a trajectory deserving of recognition. Siyanda’s co-authorship of peer-reviewed publications in internationally recognized journals, including the International Journal of Molecular Sciences and Food and Chemical Toxicology, highlights excellence in scholarly contributions. The acceptance of Siyanda’s research work in high-impact journals is itself an academic honor. Further, continuous roles in academia—such as a demonstrator and facilitator—often involve competitive selection based on merit, suggesting institutional recognition of Siyanda’s capabilities. Siyanda is a strong candidate for research fellowships and emerging researcher awards, including those recognizing early-career scientists in health sciences. As the PhD progresses, Siyanda is likely to gain more formal awards related to innovation, scientific presentation, and research excellence. Their growing body of work already reflects the high standards expected of award recipients in biomedical research.

Research Focus 

Siyanda Mazaleni’s research is centered on the molecular and epigenetic mechanisms underlying human disease, with a particular emphasis on gene regulation, toxicological impacts, and pediatric health. At the MSc level, Siyanda investigated how the mycotoxin DON disrupts DNA methylation through miR-29b modulation in liver cells, uncovering key links between environmental toxins and epigenetic dysregulation. Currently, their PhD research explores genetic and epigenetic alterations in components of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in children with ureteropelvic junction obstruction and posterior urethral valves, two significant congenital kidney disorders. This work aims to uncover biomarkers or regulatory pathways that may explain disease onset and progression in pediatric patients, particularly within the South African context. Siyanda’s broader interest in gene-environment interactions, microRNA regulation, and disease pathogenesis reflects a commitment to translational research that bridges laboratory science and public health. Their research contributes to a growing understanding of how molecular changes drive complex diseases.

Publications

Highlighting the Links between Epigenetics, COVID-19 Infection, and Vitamin D

• Authors: Foolchand, A., Mazaleni, S., Ghazi, T., & Chuturgoon, A. A.
• Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences (Int J Mol Sci)
• Year: 2022

Deoxynivalenol induces global DNA hypomethylation by modulating the expression of miR-29b and DNA methylation regulators in HepG2 cells

• Authors: Mazaleni, S., Ghazi, T., & Chuturgoon, A. A.
• Journal: Food and Chemical Toxicology
• Year: 2025

Conclusion

Siyanda Mazaleni demonstrates a strong and growing expertise in medical biosciences, particularly in the field of medical biochemistry and epigenetics. With a solid educational foundation and ongoing PhD research, Siyanda contributes valuable insights into how genetic and epigenetic factors influence human health, especially pediatric kidney diseases. Their commitment to both research and teaching highlights a balanced professional profile, blending scientific inquiry with mentorship. Siyanda’s peer-reviewed publications and active participation in academic roles position them as a promising candidate for awards such as the Best Researcher Award. Continued dedication to high-impact research and community engagement will undoubtedly further Siyanda’s contributions to biomedical sciences and improve health outcomes in South Africa and beyond.