Lecturer at North-West University, South Africa
Sankwetea Prudent Mokgokong is an accomplished early-career researcher specializing in genomics, metagenomics, and population genetics, with a strong passion for applying next-generation sequencing to address complex biological and conservation challenges. Holding an MSc in Veterinary Tropical Diseases from the University of Pretoria, along with degrees in microbiology and chemistry from Rhodes University, she has built expertise across microbial diversity studies, antimicrobial resistance, and wildlife genomics. Her research contributions are reflected in publications across reputable international journals, covering topics such as bacterial resistance, wildlife genetic diversity, and forensic DNA applications. In addition to her research, she has managed advanced sequencing facilities, trained postgraduate students, and actively participated in multidisciplinary collaborations at both national and international levels. With her combination of technical expertise, teaching experience, and commitment to scientific advancement, Ms. Mokgokong exemplifies the qualities of a promising researcher poised to make lasting contributions to science, conservation, and society.
Professional Profile
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Education
Ms. Sankwetea Prudent Mokgokong has built a strong academic foundation in the life sciences, combining training in microbiology, chemistry, and genomics to advance her research journey. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Microbiology, followed by a BSc (Hons) in Microbiology from Rhodes University, where she gained essential laboratory and analytical skills. To deepen her expertise in applied molecular biology, she completed her MSc in Veterinary Tropical Diseases at the University of Pretoria, under the guidance of esteemed supervisors, Dr. K. Lekota and Prof. van Heerden. Alongside her formal degrees, she has undertaken numerous advanced workshops and certifications, including population genomics, whole-genome sequencing, bioinformatics, and statistical modeling in biological sciences. International exposure at institutions in South Africa, Germany, and the United States has further enriched her training. This combination of formal education and practical specialization uniquely positions her to lead impactful research in genomics and conservation biology.
Experience
Ms. Mokgokong has accumulated diverse professional experience across academia, research institutes, and applied scientific services. She currently serves as a Lecturer in the Unit of Environmental Sciences and Management at North-West University, where she teaches molecular biology and bioinformatics while guiding postgraduate learners. Previously, she worked at the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI/NZG) as a Research Assistant, where she managed next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms, coordinated biodiversity sampling, and contributed to molecular forensics and conservation projects. Her earlier roles as a Junior Lecturer at North-West University, Research Coordinator at Rhodes University, and NRF/DST Research Intern provided a rich background in both teaching and research. She has managed laboratory facilities, procured scientific equipment, and supervised student projects while ensuring the integrity of sequencing data. Her career demonstrates a unique blend of scientific research, facility management, and capacity building, reflecting her ability to integrate technical expertise with leadership and mentorship responsibilities.
Research Interest
Ms. Mokgokong’s research interests lie at the intersection of omics technologies, microbial ecology, and conservation genomics. She is particularly fascinated by the application of shotgun metagenomics, whole-genome sequencing, and transcriptomic approaches to study microbial diversity and genetic variation in different environments, including soil, water, and wildlife populations. Her work extends to antimicrobial resistance profiling, evolutionary genetics, and population structure analysis in endangered species, thereby addressing both public health and biodiversity conservation priorities. By combining molecular biology with advanced bioinformatics, she explores how genetic diversity influences species survival and ecosystem resilience. She has also contributed to forensic applications of genomics, such as DNA barcoding for combating illegal wildlife trade. Beyond data generation, she enjoys formulating research questions, developing computational pipelines, and translating findings into conservation and policy frameworks. Her ultimate goal is to use genomics as a tool for sustainability, disease monitoring, and scientific empowerment of future African researchers.
Awards and Honors
Throughout her career, Ms. Mokgokong has earned recognition for her contributions to science, conservation, and capacity building. She has been actively involved in international workshops and competitive training schools, including prestigious genomics and bioinformatics programs in South Africa, Germany, and the United States. Her selection for advanced courses, such as the Population Genomics Data Analysis workshop (ConGen, University of Montana) and the Oxford Nanopore sequencing workflows in Essen-Duisburg, highlights her growing reputation as a promising scientist. Additionally, her involvement in policy-related projects concerning South Africa’s biodiversity reflects acknowledgment of her expertise beyond academia. She has been entrusted with leading sequencing facilities, mentoring students, and contributing to national conservation priorities—roles often reserved for established researchers. While still in the early stages of her career, such responsibilities demonstrate her professional excellence, leadership, and recognition as a rising figure in genomics and bioinformatics. These achievements position her as a strong candidate for competitive research awards.
Publication Top Notes
Title: Forensic application of DNA barcoding for identification of illegally traded African pangolin scales
Authors: M Mwale, DL Dalton, R Jansen, M De Bruyn, D Pietersen, PS Mokgokong, …
Journal/Conference: Genome 60 (3), 272-284
Year: 2017
Citation: 71
Title: Phylogenetic analysis of canine distemper virus in South African wildlife
Authors: AK Loots, PS Mokgokong, E Mitchell, EH Venter, A Kotze, DL Dalton
Journal/Conference: PLoS One 13 (7), e0199993
Year: 2018
Citation: 36
Title: Antimicrobial resistance profiles of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae strains isolated from broiler chickens
Authors: T Ramatla, P Mokgokong, K Lekota, O Thekisoe
Journal/Conference: Food Microbiology 120, 104476
Year: 2024
Citation: 20
Title: Molecular detection of Shiga toxin and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli isolates from sheep and goats
Authors: T Ramatla, M Tutubala, T Motlhaping, L de Wet, P Mokgokong, …
Journal/Conference: Molecular Biology Reports 51 (1), 57
Year: 2024
Citation: 16
Title: Detection of Salmonella Pathogenicity Islands and Antimicrobial-Resistant Genes in Salmonella enterica Serovars Enteritidis and Typhimurium Isolated from …
Authors: T Ramatla, NG Khasapane, LN Mlangeni, P Mokgokong, T Ramaili, …
Journal/Conference: Antibiotics 13 (5), 458
Year: 2024
Citation: 5
Title: Assessing introgressive hybridization in roan antelope (Hippotragus equinus): Lessons from South Africa
Authors: AM Van Wyk, DL Dalton, A Kotzé, JP Grobler, PS Mokgokong, AS Kropff, …
Journal/Conference: PLoS One 14 (10), e0213961
Year: 2019
Citation: 5
Title: Broad-scale genetic assessment of Southern Ground-Hornbills (Bucorvus leadbeateri) to inform population management
Authors: L Kemp, DL Dalton, M Mwale, JP Grobler, MT Madisha, AM Van Wyk, …
Journal/Conference: Global Ecology and Conservation 52, e02963
Year: 2024
Citation: 4
Title: Diversity of selected toll-like receptor genes in cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) and African leopards (Panthera pardus pardus)
Authors: R Meißner, P Mokgokong, C Pretorius, S Winter, K Labuschagne, A Kotze, …
Journal/Conference: Scientific Reports 14 (1), 3756
Year: 2024
Citation: 3
Title: The draft genome and Pan-genome structure of Paraclostridium bifermentans strain T2 isolated from sheep faeces
Authors: TG Magome, T Ramatla, P Mokgokong, O Thekisoe, KE Lekota
Journal/Conference: Data in Brief 51, 109660
Year: 2023
Citation: 2
Title: Comparative genome composition of two closely related biocontrol strains of Bacillus velezensis endophytes
Authors: KA Alayande, I Schutte, P Mokgokong, R Adeleke
Journal/Conference: Gene Reports 37, 102036
Year: 2024
Citation: 1
Title: Molecular Detection of Shiga Toxin–Producing Escherichia coli O177 Isolates, Their Antibiotic Resistance, and Virulence Profiles From Broiler Chickens
Authors: T Ramatla, T Motlhaping, N Ndlovu, K Mileng, J Howard, G Khasapane, …
Journal/Conference: International Journal of Microbiology 2024 (1), 9778058
Year: 2024
Citation: 1
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ms. Sankwetea Prudent Mokgokong exemplifies the qualities of an emerging leader in genomics and conservation research. With her strong academic background, international exposure, and professional experience in managing sequencing facilities, she has cultivated a versatile skill set that bridges laboratory science, data-driven bioinformatics, and applied conservation outcomes. Her research outputs—ranging from antimicrobial resistance studies to population genetics in endangered species—demonstrate a commitment to addressing both local and global scientific challenges. Equally, her mentorship of students and active role in capacity building underscore her dedication to fostering the next generation of scientists. By aligning her expertise with pressing issues such as biodiversity protection and microbial threats, she is making meaningful contributions to science and society. Looking ahead, Ms. Mokgokong is well-positioned to expand her influence through international collaborations, impactful publications, and leadership in genomic research initiatives across Africa and beyond.