About
Professor Stephanie Burton is an experienced academic leader, having been Vice-Principal for Research and Postgraduate Education at the University of Pretoria, a Professor in Biochemistry, and an internationally recognised researcher. Her expertise includes research strategy and capacity building, postgraduate education, internationalisation and innovation. She holds a MSc and PhD focused in Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Biotechnology from Rhodes University and has also worked as a Professor in Chemical Engineering at the University of Cape Town, and Director for Postgraduate Studies at Cape Peninsula University of Technology. She has a passion for postgraduate training, academic capacity building, and for trans-disciplinary research, especially focussing on sustainability. Nationally, she is the Interim President of Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) and Immediate Past President of the of the Royal Society of South Africa, and a Research Fellow for Universities South Africa (USAf). Internationally, she is a member of the Governing Council of Future Earth and a Co-Chair of the Board of the Inter Academies Panel (IAP), among other roles.
Biography
Professor Stephanie Burton is a biochemistry expert and academic leader with extensive experience in research, postgraduate education, and institutional development. She previously served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Postgraduate Education at the University of Pretoria and as Interim President of the Academy of Science of South Africa. She also co-chairs the S20 Science Forum for the 2025 G20 Summit, leading initiatives that strengthen research capacity and mentorship for early-career academics. Professor Burton holds an MSc in Organic Chemistry and a PhD in Biochemistry from Rhodes University. Her expertise spans biocatalysis, applied biochemistry, and sustainable processes. She has led national projects on postgraduate training and academic development, contributing significantly to South Africa’s research and higher education landscape.