Professor Mathe is developing the energy landscape as the dynamic Leader of the Centre for Energy Materials Design and Innovation (CEMDI), nestled within the prestigious Institute for Catalysis and Energy Solutions (ICES). As a Distinguished Professor at CSET Unisa on the vibrant Florida campus, he passionately explores the cutting-edge Energy Catalytic Niche Area. With nearly 40 years of groundbreaking experience, Professor Mathe stands out as a visionary trailblazer in the energy sector, renowned for his innovative mindset and extensive expertise. His impressive leadership has spearheaded transformative research teams and ambitious projects that propel energy solutions forward, not just locally but on a global scale.
A trusted advisor and innovator, he provides strategic direction in partnerships, policy development, and budget oversight, while actively engaging with the media as a compelling author, speaker, and interviewer. From 2016 to 2024, he left an indelible mark as Chair of the University of Johannesburg's PEETS station. He contributed to organizing exhilarating local and international conferences—most notably the ICAT 2024, alongside the exciting AMRS 2017 in Botswana and ISE 70 in Durban in 2019. He is also a key member of influential advisory boards, including Isondo Precious Metals Pty. Ltd., NACI's Energy Storage sub-committee, and the Department of Energy's Nuclear RDI Committee. Dedicated to shaping the future of energy, Professor Mathe diligently reviews for high impact journals while nurturing the next generation of scholars as he supervises MSc and PhD candidates across several universities in South Africa.
His research is at the forefront of advanced energy materials, focusing on innovative electrochemical studies and the synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials tailored for energy applications. Prof. Mkhulu Mathe stands as a leading authority in the field of energy research as a Distinguished Professor within the College of Science, Engineering, and Technology (CSET) at the University of South Africa (UNISA). A highly esteemed South African academic and scientist, he is recognized as a prominent thought leader in advanced materials and cleaner technologies, dedicated to securing a sustainable energy future for both Africa and the global community. Prof. Mathe's distinguished academic journey includes prestigious institutions in both South Africa and the United States. He earned his PhD in Analytical Chemistry/Electrochemistry from the University of Georgia in 2003, where he pioneered research in electrochemical atomic layer deposition of nanostructured semiconductor thin film materials aimed at energy applications. He also holds a Master’s degree from the University of Transkei, now known as Walter Sisulu University.
Currently, Prof. Mathe serves as a Distinguished Professor at UNISA, where he spearheads the Energy Research initiatives in the Energy Catalytic Niche Areas. He played a key role in establishing the university's Institute for Catalysis and Energy Solutions, reflecting his commitment to advancing energy research. His impressive climb at the CSIR culminated in his appointment as Chief Researcher after demonstrating exceptional capability from researcher to manager. In addition to his research, Prof. Mathe significantly contributes to Strategic Advisory & Policy. He acts as an energy champion, providing expert advice to government entities and actively shaping research strategies and policy development for the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (dsti).