Ms. Siyanda Mazaleni | Epigenetics | Women Researcher Award
Ms. Siyanda Mazaleni | University of KwaZulu-Natal | South Africa
Ms. Siyanda Mazaleni is an emerging medical bioscience researcher from South Africa, currently pursuing a PhD in Health Sciences (Medical Biochemistry) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, focusing on the genetic and epigenetic regulation of RAS components in children with ureteropelvic junction obstruction and posterior urethral valves. She holds a BSc in Medical Biosciences and a BSc (Hons) with majors in applied immunology, anatomical science, and advanced studies in reproduction and health from the University of the Western Cape, as well as an MSc in Medical Science (Medical Biochemistry) from UKZN, where her research investigated DNA hypomethylation induced by Deoxynivalenol in HepG2 cells. Siyanda has co-authored publications including a systematic review on epigenetics, COVID-19, and Vitamin D, and original research in Food and Chemical Toxicology. She has extensive academic experience as a demonstrator, student assistant, and facilitator, demonstrating strong mentorship and teaching skills. Her work reflects a commitment to advancing knowledge in medical biochemistry and promoting scientific research in South Africa.
Publication Profile
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Education
Ms. Siyanda Mazaleni has pursued a distinguished academic path in medical biosciences and biochemistry. She completed her BSc in Medical Biosciences at the University of the Western Cape, covering core subjects such as anatomy and physiology, medical microbiology, statistics, life sciences, biotechnology, chemistry, and computer literacy. Building on this foundation, she earned a BSc (Hons) in Medical Biosciences from the same university, specializing in applied immunology, anatomical science, advanced reproductive health studies, nutritional bioscience, and laboratory techniques, with a research project focused on cardiovascular disease. Siyanda further advanced her expertise with an MSc in Medical Science (Medical Biochemistry) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, conducting research on DNA hypomethylation induced by Deoxynivalenol through modulation of miR-29b expression in HepG2 cells. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Sciences (Medical Biochemistry) at UKZN, investigating the role of genetic and epigenetic changes in regulating RAS components in children with ureteropelvic junction obstruction and posterior urethral valves in KwaZulu-Natal, reflecting her commitment to advancing research in medical biochemistry.
Professional Experience
Ms. Siyanda Mazaleni has gained extensive experience in both academic and research settings at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. She has served as a demonstrator in Medical Biochemistry, where she assisted in teaching, mentoring students, and supporting laboratory-based practical sessions, contributing to the development of future healthcare professionals. In addition, she worked as a student assistant at the UKZN Howard College Libraries, gaining valuable skills in information management, research support, and academic resource facilitation. Her commitment to education and student development is further demonstrated through her role as a facilitator at the College of Health Sciences, where she guided and supported students in understanding complex scientific concepts and laboratory techniques. These roles have not only strengthened her technical and organizational skills but also highlight her dedication to mentorship, academic excellence, and fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment within the university.
Research Focus
Ms. Siyanda Mazaleni’s research primarily focuses on molecular and medical biochemistry, with a strong emphasis on epigenetics, gene regulation, and the molecular mechanisms underlying human health and disease. Her work explores how genetic and epigenetic modifications influence cellular processes, as demonstrated in her PhD project investigating the regulation of RAS components in children with ureteropelvic junction obstruction and posterior urethral valves. She has also studied the effects of environmental toxins, such as Deoxynivalenol, on global DNA methylation and the modulation of microRNA expression in liver cells, highlighting her interest in the intersection of toxicology and epigenetic regulation. Additionally, her systematic review on the links between epigenetics, COVID-19, and vitamin D reflects a broader focus on how molecular mechanisms impact human immunity and health outcomes. Overall, Siyanda’s research integrates molecular biology, epigenetics, and health sciences, contributing valuable insights into disease mechanisms, nutritional influences, and potential therapeutic targets, positioning her as an innovative and impactful early-career researcher.
Publication Top Notes
A review: Highlighting the links between epigenetics, COVID-19 infection, and vitamin D
Years: 2022
Citations: 17
Titles: Deoxynivalenol induces global DNA hypomethylation by modulating the expression of miR-29b and DNA methylation regulators in HepG2 cells
Years: 2025
Conclusion
Ms. Siyanda Mazaleni is a highly promising early-career researcher with a strong academic record, innovative research contributions, and active mentorship experience. Her work aligns with the objectives of the Research for Women Researcher Award, making her a suitable and deserving candidate for recognition.