Makoena Moloi

Background

About Makoena Moloi

I am a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Plant Sciences at the University of the Free State, strongly focusing on plant ecophysiology. I have extensive experience teaching undergraduate and postgraduate students, shaping the next generation of plant ecophysiologists. My research focuses on the mechanisms crops use to tolerate abiotic stress and the application of biostimulants and biofertilizers to enhance crop production in the face of a changing climate. I have published extensively on the biochemical and physiological responses of crops such as wheat, soybean, and maize to environmental stressors. I’m passionate about improving agricultural sustainability through non-destructive methods (including photosynthesis efficiency measurements) and destructive biochemical techniques (e.g. antioxidative systems, osmolytes, reactive oxygen species, metabolites, etc.). Additionally, I am a key collaborator in international projects and actively review manuscripts for leading journals. I am committed to advancing plant science research and education while contributing to global discussions on food security and environmental sustainability.