Professor Vanessa Steenkamp serves as the Deputy Dean of Teaching & Learning at the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, where she also holds a professorship in Pharmacology. Her pioneering work in traditional herbal medicine and toxicology has had a transformative impact on the scientific community, particularly in pre-clinical drug testing. Her research addresses the critical area of neurodegenerative diseases. Prof. Steenkamp's research has gained both national and international recognition, positioning her as a leader in pharmacology and natural medicine.
She holds prestigious leadership positions, including Deputy Chair at the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions, Immediate Past President of the South African Association of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology (SASBCP), and Vice President of the Toxicology Society of South Africa. She has further distinguished herself being the first woman president of the SASBCP and the founding president of the African Federation of Clinical Chemistry. Her leadership within these organizations has led to critical advancements in scientific research and healthcare in Africa.
Her work has earned her numerous accolades and she has been invited to speak at many international conferences. She has also made significant strides in mentoring the next generation of scientists. She has successfully mentored four postdoctoral fellows and supervised 76 postgraduate students, many of whom have gone on to prominent roles in academia and industry.
Prof. Steenkamp also plays an influential role in scientific publishing as a reviewer for 36 international peer-reviewed journals and editorial board member of nine prominent journals. Her body of work, which includes over 325 conference presentations, has made her a highly respected figure in both the academic and scientific communities. Through her exceptional leadership and dedication, she continues to inspire advancements in pharmacology and serves as a role model for women in science.
