A tribute to PhD supervisors

The eighth generation of academic genealogy

By Simthembile Dlamini

The academic genealogy that traces its roots from Walter Fletcher to Simthembile (Sim) Dlamini as an academic supervisor is a remarkable lineage of intellectual giants who have significantly shaped modern scientific thought. Walter Fletcher, a distinguished British physiologist, made foundational contributions to the understanding of muscle physiology and metabolic processes, setting the tone for a legacy of rigorous scientific inquiry. Archibald Vivian Hill, his student, was a Nobel Laureate known for his pioneering work in muscle mechanics and the role of oxygen consumption in physical exertion, laying the groundwork for biophysics. Hill mentored Ralph Fowler, a physicist whose work on statistical mechanics influenced early quantum theory and bridged the gap between physics and thermodynamics.

From Fowler’s tutelage came Paul Dirac, one of the most influential theoretical physicists of the 20th century. Known for the Dirac equation, which combines quantum mechanics and special relativity, Dirac fundamentally shaped quantum field theory. Dirac’s influence extended to Dennis Sciama, a cosmologist whose mentorship produced many renowned scientists, including Stephen Hawking. Sciama, in turn, supervised George Ellis, a world-leading cosmologist known for his work on general relativity and the large-scale structure of the universe. Ellis’s mentorship of Roy Maartens continued this tradition, with Maartens being a leader in the study of cosmology, particularly in cosmic microwave background and large-scale cosmic structures. Prof. Maartens, an A-rated research scientist in South Africa, has made numerous contributions to cosmology, solidifying his reputation as a world leader. One of his significant works is co-authoring Relativistic Cosmology with George F. R. Ellis and Malcolm A. H. MacCallum. Published by Cambridge University Press in 2012, this book serves as a comprehensive resource for graduate students and researchers, offering a deep dive into the key developments and open issues in cosmology.

This legacy of excellence now extends to Simthembile Dlamini, a recent PhD graduate, who stands as the latest in a distinguished academic genealogy. His research focuses on cosmology, particularly large-scale structure and the early universe. His notable contributions include Constraining primordial non-Gaussianity by combining next-generation galaxy and 21 cm intensity mapping surveys, where he worked with Roy Maartens and Sheean Jolicoeur to improve our understanding of the early universe’s structure through cuttingedge observational techniques. This research aims to place tighter constraints on primordial non-Gaussianity, a key parameter in understanding the physics of the early universe, by leveraging next-generation galaxy surveys and 21 cm intensity mapping.

Simthembile has also made significant strides in studying the evolution of matter density perturbations. His work includes Constraining the growth rate on linear scales by combining SKAO and DESI surveys, which integrates data from two major upcoming surveys to understand better the universe’s expansion and the growth of cosmic structures. Through these projects, Dr. Dlamini contributes significantly to the study of primordial physics and the evolution of the universe, using advanced techniques and collaborative approaches that align with the tradition of scientific excellence from his academic lineage.

From the foundations of muscle mechanics to the mysteries of the early universe, a lineage of giants paves the way for a new voice in cosmic symphonies, where ancient light whispers the secrets of creation, and Sim listens, poised to unravel them.

From the End of the Rainbow to the Edge of Time – A Journey Through the Wonders of Physics : Prof. Walter Lewin.

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My Journey of Gratitude: A Tribute to My PhD Supervisors

I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the incredible PhD supervision I received during my time at the University of the Western Cape. Reflecting on my journey, I realize that my experience was shaped not only by exceptional academic guidance but also by a profound level of personal support that I could never have anticipated.

From the very beginning, my supervisors were more than just mentors to me; they were like family. Prof. Roy Maartens was more than a supervisor; he was like a father figure. His wisdom, patience, and unwavering support created a solid foundation for my growth, both academically and personally. He was always there to provide guidance and encouragement, helping me navigate the complexities of my research and the challenges that came with it.

Dr. Sheean Jolicoeur, on the other hand, felt like an older brother. He was always ready with practical advice and a listening ear, providing a sense of camaraderie and understanding that made the tough times more bearable. His support extended far beyond the academic realm, and I am deeply thankful for his constant presence throughout my journey.

I faced some of the most challenging moments of my life during my PhD journey, particularly when I lost both my grandfather and my brother. During those difficult times, the emotional support I received from Prof. Maartens and Dr. Jolicoeur was beyond what I could have ever expected. Their kindness and empathy made me feel like I was not just a student but a part of their family. I truly felt the warmth and love from them, and that made all the difference in helping me stay strong and focused.

The scientific supervision I received was also of the highest calibre. At the beginning of my PhD, I often doubted whether I could measure up to the standards required in my field. I was overwhelmed and unsure of my place. But thanks to the excellent mentorship from both Prof. Maartens and Dr. Jolicoeur, I grew in confidence and capability.

They challenged me to think critically and always strive for excellence. Their support was not limited to academic advice; it was emotional, financial, and deeply personal, far beyond what one might expect from supervisors. I will forever be grateful for this experience and for the extraordinary support I received. It has inspired me to give back in the same way to be the kind of mentor who not only guides students academically but also supports them emotionally and personally.

I look forward to the opportunity to provide the same level of dedication, compassion, and excellence to my future students, just as Prof. Maartens and Dr. Jolicoeur did for me.

To Prof. Roy Maartens and Dr. Sheean Jolicoeur, thank you from the bottom of my heart. This journey was transformative because of your guidance and support, and I will always cherish the memories and lessons learned along the way.

This is not just a story of academic success; it is a story of mentorship, compassion, and the bonds that can form when people truly care for one another. I am incredibly thankful to have had such remarkable supervisors who shaped my journey in ways I could have never imagined.

I am profoundly thankful for the countless hours they invested in guiding me, for believing in me when I doubted myself, and for being there through every high and low. I will deeply miss the days of working closely with them, learning from their vast knowledge, sharing in their wisdom, and feeling the genuine care and camaraderie that made every challenge worthwhile.

The bonds we formed and the memories we created are ones I will forever cherish, and as I move forward in my career, I carry with me the invaluable lessons they imparted, both in science and in life. Forever grateful, once again thank you for everything.