NITheCS FOCUS AREAS
NITheCS supports a range of Focus Areas, which reflect our commitment to advancing research and collaboration in the theoretical and computational sciences. These thematic hubs unite researchers, students, and institutions working on shared challenges – from fundamental physics and cosmology to data science, mathematics, and interdisciplinary applications. Through workshops, seminars, and collaborative initiatives, the Focus Areas engage in knowledge exchange and stimulate innovation to drive research impact in South Africa and beyond.
2025 Focus Areas and PIs
Quantum Technologies
PI: Prof Jeff Murugan (University of Cape Town)
Afrocentric Solutions for Disease Control and Health Care
PI: Prof Özlem Tastan Bishop (Rhodes University)
Decoding the Universe: Quantum Gravity and Quantum Fields
PI: Prof Vishnu Jejjala (University of the Witwatersrand)
Computational Modelling of Functional Materials for Driving Sustainable Innovation
PI: Dr Regina Maphanga (Council for Scientific and Industrial Research – CSIR)
Mathematical Structures for Foundations and Innovations: Uncovering Universal Theoretical Principles and Building Integrated Mathematical Capacity to Foster South Africa’s Future Scientific, Technological, and Economic Progress
PI: Prof Zurab Janelidze (Stellenbosch University)
Elevating data analytics and machine learning in South Africa: Advancing capacity and statistics and machine learning through focused and collaborative research initiatives
PI: Inger Fabris-Rotelli (University of Pretoria)
Complexity in Biological Systems E5: Unravelling Complexity in Coupled Earth, Environmental, Economic, Ecological and Evolutionary Systems
PI: Prof Cang Hui (Stellenbosch University)
Driving Innovation in Finance for Sustainable Growth: Pioneering Solutions for Emerging Markets and Energy Transitions
PI: Prof Mesias Alfeus (Stellenbosch University)
A South African Community Earth System Modelling Platform: Carbon-Climate Modelling, Education and Innovation in Support of Regional Climate-Development Risk and Opportunities
PI: Prof Pedro Monteiro (Stellenbosch University)
Computational and Theoretical, Gravity, Astrophysics, and Cosmology
PI: Prof Amanda Weltman (University of Cape Town)