Ms. Zikhona Njengele-Tetyana

Zikhona Njengele-Tetyana is a researcher in nanotechnology and bioactive materials whose work bridges chemistry, microbiology, and biomedical science. Her scholarship centers on the design and functionalization of metal and metal-oxide nanoparticles, with particular emphasis on silver, copper, TiO2, and quantum dot systems. Through advanced synthesis and surface engineering strategies, she develops nanomaterials with enhanced stability, antimicrobial potency, and improved biocompatibility.

A major focus of her research involves polydopamine-capped and alloyed nanocomposites, exploring their cytotoxicity profiles and antibacterial efficacy against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens. She has also contributed to peptide-based antimicrobial development, notably through the design of acyldepsipeptide analogues and their conjugation to nanocarriers to overcome pharmacokinetic limitations and resistance challenges. This integrated nano–bio approach highlights strengths in materials characterization, cell-based assays, and translational antimicrobial strategies.

Her broader contributions extend to biosensor development, viral diagnostics, and recombinant protein expression, reflecting versatility across molecular biotechnology and point-of-care technologies. Collectively, her work advances the development of safe, effective antimicrobial platforms and diagnostic tools, supporting innovations in infectious disease management and nanomedicine.