Prof Robyn Van Zyl

Robyn Van Zyl is a medicinal chemist and malaria research specialist whose work centers on the discovery of novel antiprotozoal and vector-control agents. Her research integrates synthetic chemistry, molecular hybridization, and computational modelling to address drug resistance in Plasmodium falciparum and other parasitic pathogens. She has developed innovative chemical scaffolds targeting PfDHFR and heat shock proteins, contributing promising leads with favorable safety profiles.

A major focus of her scholarship is the identification of essential oil constituents and terpenoids as bioinsecticides against African malaria vectors, particularly pyrethroid-resistant Anopheles species. Through in vitro and in silico studies, she has advanced understanding of acetylcholinesterase inhibition and selective targeting mechanisms, supporting the development of safer, resistance-breaking vector control strategies.

Her publications also reflect interdisciplinary engagement, including work on antimicrobial stewardship education in African medical curricula. Collectively, her contributions demonstrate strength in translational parasitology, structure-based drug design, and public health-oriented chemical biology aimed at combating infectious diseases in high-burden regions.