Dr Hayley Clements, the 2019 recipient of the coveted Jennifer Ward Oppenheimer Research Grant

Stellenbosch University research fellow Dr Hayley Clements was announced as the recipient of the inaugural Jennifer Ward Oppenheimer Research Grant worth $150 000 at the tenth Oppenheimer Research Conference held in Midrand, Gauteng.

She was awarded for her research titled "Quantifying the biodiversity planetary boundary for Africa.” The research aimed at developing the Biodiversity Intactness Index for Africa through a continent-wide collaboration of biodiversity professionals.

In addition, it will then explore where and how biodiversity loss impacts human wellbeing, promoting understanding of where investing in nature can deliver net benefits for society. Her proposal was selected from 164 other applicants across the continent.

“I am thrilled to receive this award that honours the legacy of Jennifer Ward Oppenheimer. I’m committed to harnessing this opportunity to undertake research that effects positive change towards sustainable development in Africa,” she said upon receiving the award.

The official announcement of the grant was made earlier this year when researchers were invited to submit project proposals that would contribute to the advancement of environmental and allied sciences, and address African issues of current and future importance.

Dr Duncan MacFadyen, head of conservation research at Oppenheimer Generations, said: “The JWO Grant couldn’t have asked for a more deserving inaugural winner. We look forward to the results of her research and will continue to support African research excellence that strives to find real-world solutions for African sustainability.”

The JWO Grant was set up to honour the late Jennifer Ward Oppenheimer and to continue her legacy and contribution to conservation, the environment and cutting-edge science in Africa.

Photo Courtesy of Google

Article by Jedidah Mwangi

http://m.engineeringnews.co.za/article/research-grant-awarded-at-environment-conference-2019-11-29