Prof. Nceba Gqaleni | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Best Researcher Award
Research Professor at University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Professor Nceba Gqaleni is a renowned academic and researcher at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. He currently serves as an Acting Academic Leader in the Discipline of Traditional Medicine and as a Research Professor. With a passion for integrating traditional medicine into mainstream healthcare, his research aims to address health challenges facing Africa, including HIV, diabetes, and cancer. His work on herbal treatments and immunomodulators has positioned him as a pioneer in exploring alternative therapies. Prof. Gqaleni’s research is characterized by the synergy between modern science and indigenous knowledge systems, contributing significantly to the global healthcare landscape. His work continues to impact public health, with ongoing clinical trials and innovative studies aimed at improving health outcomes. Additionally, he is committed to training the next generation of researchers, having mentored numerous postdoctoral, PhD, and master’s students.
Professional Profile
Education
Professor Nceba Gqaleni’s educational background is rooted in biochemistry, with a PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, UK. He also holds a Master’s degree in Biochemistry from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), South Africa. His academic journey has been marked by a deep interest in both the molecular and traditional aspects of medicine, leading him to pursue research that bridges these fields. His formal education laid the foundation for a distinguished career in both academia and research, where he has applied his scientific expertise to explore alternative therapies and the integration of traditional medicine into contemporary health systems. Prof. Gqaleni’s educational path reflects a commitment to advancing knowledge and improving healthcare, particularly in the African context.
Professional Experience
Professor Gqaleni’s professional experience spans academia, research, and leadership. He currently holds the position of Acting Academic Leader in the Discipline of Traditional Medicine at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. His role involves guiding academic initiatives and research in traditional medicine, while also providing leadership in curriculum development and research supervision. In addition to his academic responsibilities, Prof. Gqaleni has led numerous significant research projects, particularly focused on traditional medicine’s role in addressing major health issues such as HIV and diabetes. His extensive work in supervising postgraduate students, including over 7 postdoctoral researchers, 12 PhD candidates, and 25 master’s students, demonstrates his dedication to nurturing the next generation of scholars and researchers. Prof. Gqaleni’s professional experience is a blend of academic excellence, mentorship, and groundbreaking research in the field of traditional medicine and biochemistry.
Research Interests
Professor Nceba Gqaleni’s research interests lie at the intersection of biochemistry and traditional medicine, with a primary focus on finding alternative treatments for diseases prevalent in Africa, such as HIV, diabetes, and cancer. He has led pioneering research on herbal compositions for the treatment of HIV and is currently conducting clinical trials for a patented HIV cure. In addition to HIV, his research extends to cancer therapies, immunomodulators, and the application of Indigenous phytotherapy in managing diseases like diabetes and HIV. Prof. Gqaleni’s ongoing research projects also explore the health and wellness of Indigenous peoples, particularly in the context of climate change and global health disparities. His work is driven by the goal of bridging the gap between traditional healing practices and modern medical approaches, thereby improving health outcomes in African communities and globally.
Awards and Honors
Professor Nceba Gqaleni’s career has been marked by significant achievements and recognition. He has been honored for his pioneering work in traditional medicine and biochemistry, particularly in the field of HIV and diabetes treatment. One of his notable accomplishments is the filing of a patent for a herbal composition aimed at curing HIV, which is currently undergoing clinical trials. Prof. Gqaleni has also received substantial funding for his research, including a $4.4 million NIH grant for a study on Indigenous phytotherapy. His contributions to science and public health have earned him the respect of both academic and medical communities. Prof. Gqaleni’s work in advancing the integration of traditional medicine into global health systems continues to garner international attention and recognition. His awards and honors reflect his exceptional leadership and groundbreaking contributions to healthcare research.
Conclusion
Professor Nceba Gqaleni demonstrates exceptional potential for the Best Researcher Award due to his innovative contributions to HIV treatment, integration of traditional medicine, and impactful mentorship. His work addresses critical health challenges in Africa, blending traditional knowledge with modern scientific methods. While broader dissemination and commercialization efforts could strengthen his profile, his contributions make him a strong contender for the award.
Publications Top Noted
- Indigenous Medicinal Plants Used in the Management of Diabetes in Africa: 5 Years (2019–2024) in Perspective
- Authors: Frimpong, E.K., Thembane, N., Hlatshwayo, S., Ngcobo, M., Gqaleni, N.
- Year: 2024
- Citations: 2
- Review on the Anti-Hyperglycemic Potential of Psidium guajava and Seriphium plumosum L.
- Authors: Thembane, N., Hlatshwayo, S., Ngcobo, M., Ngubane, P., Gqaleni, N.
- Year: 2024
- Citations: 1
- Erratum: An in vitro study to elucidate the effects of Product Nkabinde on immune response in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of healthy donors
- Authors: Setlhare, B., Letsoalo, M., Nkabinde, S.A., Ngcobo, M., Gqaleni, N.
- Year: 2024
- Citations: 0
- An in vitro study to elucidate the effects of product Nkabinde on immune response in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of healthy donors
- Authors: Setlhare, B., Letsoalo, M., Nkabinde, S.A., Ngcobo, M., Gqaleni, N.
- Year: 2024
- Citations: 1
- Analysis of Three Species of Cassipourea Traditionally Used for Hypermelanosis in Selected Provinces in South Africa
- Authors: Mpofana, N., Yalo, M., Gqaleni, N., Dlova, N.C., Hussein, A.A.
- Year: 2024
- Citations: 0
- Melasma in People with Darker Skin Types: A Scoping Review Protocol on Prevalence, Treatment Options for Melasma, and Impact on Quality of Life
- Authors: Mpofana, N., Chibi, B., Gqaleni, N., Kgarosi, K., Dlova, N.C.
- Year: 2023
- Citations: 3
- The Effect of Melasma on the Quality of Life in People with Darker Skin Types Living in Durban, South Africa
- Authors: Mpofana, N., Paulse, M., Gqaleni, N., Hussein, A., Dlova, N.C.
- Year: 2023
- Citations: 0
- The Met and Unmet Health Needs for HIV, Hypertension, and Diabetes in Rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: Analysis of a Cross-Sectional Multimorbidity Survey
- Authors: Singh, U., Olivier, S., Cuadros, D., Ramnanan, A., Harilall, S., Gqaleni, N.
- Year: 2023
- Citations: 5
- An Investigation into the Acute and Subacute Toxicity of Extracts of Cassipourea flanaganii Stem Bark In Vivo
- Authors: Mpofana, N., Chipangura, J.K., Paulse, M., Hussein, A.A., Crouch, N.R.
- Year: 2023
- Citations: 2
- Treatment of Melasma on Darker Skin Types: A Scoping Review
- Authors: Mpofana, N., Chibi, B., Visser, T., Hussein, A.A., Dlova, N.C.
- Year: 2023
- Citations: 4