Do protected areas shield birds from drought? Researchers take a closer look at South Africa’s largest national park
A research team comprising experts from SAEON, the University of KwaZulu-Natal, BirdLife South Africa and a collaborator from the U.S., set out to explore how bird communities in the Kruger National Park responded to an unusually intense drought.
Science and technology in action
Small ocean drifters with an important role
Researchers from the Shallow Marine and Coastal Research Infrastructure are investigating marine cladocerans in SAEON’s Algoa Bay Sentinel Site. These tiny organisms’ sensitivity to environmental factors makes them useful indicators of environmental change.
Advancing understanding of seasonal sea ice in the Antarctic Marginal Ice Zone
Riesna R. Audh’s research findings challenge long-standing assumptions about the seasonality of sea ice processes and underscore the need for integrated, multidisciplinary approaches to studying the Antarctic Marginal Ice Zone.
SAPRI 2025/26 Marion Island overwinterers appointed
These dedicated marine mammal and seabird field researchers form part of the Marion Island Top Predator Long-Term Observation Programme, a key initiative under the South African Polar Research Infrastructure.
Putting South African fairy shrimp on the global map
Dr Betsie Milne, an honorary NRF-SAEON research associate, was one of the branchiopod taxon leads that conducted the red list assessment of South African Anostraca (fairy shrimp).
NOW AVAILABLE! Heuweltjie-Covered Landscapes of Western South Africa – Interpretive Fieldtrip Guidebook
Researchers have long debated the origins of heuweltjies. Now, a new guidebook provides comprehensive coverage of recent findings.
Forging learning experiences through collaboration
The long-standing relationship between the National Research Fund of Kenya and the National Research Foundation of South Africa has been sustained by multilateral programmes that advance shared development priorities.
Adding critical skills to the field scientist toolbox: First aid and fire safety training
The Ndlovu team recently undertook week-long training in First Aid Levels 1 and 2, and basic firefighting. Staff were equipped to respond quickly and effectively to injuries, medical emergencies and sudden health crises.
Message from the MD
Building vital capacity
Shaping future ecologists: North-West University and Arid Lands Node join forces in the Karoo
The Arid Lands Node hosted postgraduate students and lecturers on a field excursion to Tierberg-LTER and Wolwekraal Nature Reserve. These SAEON research platforms provided the ideal location to demonstrate different field methodologies.
From intern to technician: A journey of growth and discovery
Tsumbedzo Ramalevha describes his internship at the Ndlovu Node as a launchpad for (his) career: “It was where the theoretical knowledge from my studies was grounded in the real-world application of science.”
Seed Physiology summer school: A solo leap to Germany
PhD student Lanja Oosthuizen set off on an academic journey of a different kind as one of eight international students selected to attend the Applied Seed Physiology summer school in Germany.
Data in action: Highlights from the Graduate Student Network Indibano
Centred on the theme “From Data to Action: Science for a Sustainable Future”, the 17th Indibano challenged delegates to consider how their work can drive real-world impact.
Grasslands Node showcased at annual Indibano
The field excursion hosted by EFTEON’s Northern Drakensberg Landscape and SAEON’s Grasslands Node, offered hands-on exposure to environmental monitoring platforms.
Building vital capacity
Meet the Graduate Student Network’s new steering committee
The new committee has kickstarted the planning for this year’s Indibano, a meeting place for postgraduate students to share their research and engage with leading researchers.
Data Visualisation R and QGIS workshop equips students to analyse datasets
Through these workshops the students not only learn new skills, but also meet other students, which broadens their academic networks.
Learning the Ndlovu way
Tzumbedzo Ramalevha reflects on the wide range of learning experiences he was exposed to as an intern at SAEON’s Ndlovu Node.
Science engagement
Supporting the linchpins of our education system
The Ndlovu Node presented an educators’ workshop on South African biomes and the Egagasini Node ran an exhibition and workshop at this year’s Science Teacher Day Workshop.
Leaves to landscapes
The Fynbos Node’s multi-faceted exhibit at the South African National Biodiversity Institute’s Career Day showcased most of the science team’s fields of expertise.
SAEON in the media
SAEON’s people and projects received coverage in national print, broadcast, online and social media.