Koketso Vincent Mophahlane

My name is Koketso Vincent Mophahlane, and I am currently midway through my PhD in Physics, specializing in radio astronomy. My research focuses on using atomic hydrogen to study the influence of cluster environments on galaxy transformation and star formation activity, utilizing observational data from MeerKAT.

I was born and raised in Hammanskraal, where my interest in astronomy was sparked by a passionate science teacher during primary school. This early fascination led me to pursue a career in astronomy, and I am particularly interested in the interplay between star formation activity and galaxy transformation due to gravitational and hydrodynamical interactions taking place in cluster environments.

Throughout my academic journey, I have actively participated in and presented at several conferences, including the annual SARAO postgraduate conference every year since 2021, the South African Institute of Physics (SAIP) in 2024, where I also volunteered, the African Astronomical Union (AfAS) and presenting my work and volunteering at the International Astronomical Union General Assembly (IAU GA) 2024. These experiences have allowed me to share my research and connect with fellow astronomers.

In addition to my research, I have served as a science education lecturer at Fort Hare, where I developed a strong passion for advancing STEM education in South Africa. I am committed to contributing to the development and progression of the STEM curriculum in the country, helping to inspire the next generation of scientists.

Currently, I am preparing to apply for postdoctoral positions and have a keen interest in the DARA Astronomy Basic Training Programme (2024-25). My ultimate goal is to contribute valuable insights to the field of radio astronomy and galaxy evolution while continuing to grow both personally and professionally.

Through my academic journey with Rhodes University Radio Astronomy Techniques and Technologies (RATT) with funding and support from SARAO, I have been gradually becoming an experienced radio astronomer with expertise in analyzing and interpreting multiwavelength observations. My technical proficiency includes Python, C/C++, and MATLAB for software development, as well as specialized tools like CASA and SoFiA for data reduction and source finding. I am also skilled in high-performance computing, statistical analysis using R, and managing large datasets with SQL. Additionally, I have a growing interest in applying machine learning techniques to scientific research.

My academic background includes conducting extensive research, writing and presenting papers at local and international conferences such as SARAO, SAIP, and AfAS. I have a strong passion for education, currently finishing my lecturing contract at the University of Fort Hare, where I was committed to advancing the STEM curriculum in South Africa. My interpersonal skills are honed through public speaking, collaboration in research environments, and science communication.

Beyond my technical and academic pursuits, I have a deep interest in art, history, and music, which contribute to a well-rounded approach in both my personal and professional life. I am also a keen writer, with plans to author a book that bridges astrology with ancient cultures and Christian theology.

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• Rhodes University Radio Astronomy Techniques and Technologies, funded by the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory.
• Provisional Lecturer at the University of Fort Hare.

• Developed and implemented full tutoring program at Hammanskraal through Matematica et Scientia (Pty) Ltd that I independently founded 2014.
• Oversaw team of 14 tutors.
• Started a jazz and poetry band called Intimate Arts in 2017 and published music in 2018.

AWETHU Project (Constitution Hill) Business administration and IncubationTraining - 2014