CV

since 2024

Research Assistant, Interdisciplinary Center for Materials Science, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany

2024

PhD Candidate, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany

2023 – 2025

Research Assistant and Student research assistance, NorcSi GmbH, Halle Saale, Germany

2023 – 2024

Student research assistance, Chemistry department Division of Macromolecular Science, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany

2021 – 2024

M.Sc. Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, (Polymer material science), Saxony Anhalt

2015 – 2018

M.Sc. University of Leipzig (Structural chemistry and spectroscopy), Saxony

2010 – 2014

B.Sc and B.Sc. honors University of Limpopo (Molecular and life sciences), South Africa

Projects

Vitrimeric Polymers

The life-cycle of polymers remains a critical concern for modern society, as the large-scale production of plastics demands solutions that are both ecologically responsible and economically viable. Vitrimers, a novel class of materials, merge the best features of the two main types of polymers: thermosets and thermoplastics, offering enhanced durability, recyclability, and self-healing abilities. Traditional thermosets, which are crosslinked permanent polymer networks, are widely favored for their mechanical strength and chemical resistance, but they are difficult to recycle once cured. In contrast, thermoplastic polymers can be melted and reshaped, but often lack the necessary stability required for more demanding applications. Vitrimers overcome these limitations by embedding dynamic bond exchange, allowing their reprocessability at high temperatures, while retaining structural integrity under operating conditions.