Dr Asslly Mafaune

Dr. Asslly Mafaune completed his BSc in Chemistry (cum laude) at Walter Sisulu University in Mthatha in 2013. In 2014, he earned a BSc (Hons) in Chemistry from Stellenbosch University under a merit bursary. He joined Professor Gareth Arnott’s group in 2015 to pursue his MSc in Chemistry, focusing on the synthesis of calix[4]arene boronic acids for catalysis application.

In 2018, he began his PhD in Chemistry under the supervision of Prof. Arnott, with co-supervision by Prof. Peter Mallon. His multidisciplinary research focused on developing novel triazole-functionalised phenylboronic acid catalysts for room temperature direct amidation of carboxylic acids and amines. These catalysts were later immobilised on a polymer support to explore their potential in heterogeneous catalysis.

In 2023, Dr. Mafaune commenced his postdoctoral fellowship under Prof. Erick Strauss in the Department of Biochemistry at Stellenbosch University. His research involved two projects on antimicrobial drug development: one targeting Staphylococcus aureus and the other exploring targeted protein degradation to combat tuberculosis (TB).

Throughout his postgraduate studies, Dr. Mafaune tutored undergraduate and honours Chemistry modules and mentored honours and master's researchers.

His interests include physical fitness, long-distance running, hiking, Formula 1 racing, and playing soccer.