Dimpho Kotoane is the only Honours student among the Master’s and PhD candidates in this year’s South African group, now in Dubna for a programme that runs until 10 October.
Dimpho Kotoane, a Physics Honours student at Sol Plaatje University (SPU), is attending the SA-JINR Summer School and International Student Practice at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research (JINR) in Dubna, Russia, from 18 September to 10 October 2026. The programme, coordinated in South Africa by the National Research Foundation (NRF), gives young researchers experience of large international research facilities and scientific collaboration.
Originally from Mamelodi East, Pretoria, Kotoane’s passion for science began with a simple curiosity about how things work. This interest led her to pursue physics, a field that allows her to explore the fundamental principles of nature while developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Her academic interests focus on applying physics to advance scientific knowledge and improve people’s lives. This passion is reflected in her current Honours research project, which investigates the synthesis and characterisation of copper sulphide nanoparticles and their response to near-infrared light.
Kotoane’s research examines how extremely small particles, known as nanoparticles, can absorb near-infrared light and convert it into heat. Scientists are exploring the use of this property in photothermal cancer therapy, where nanoparticles could be directed to cancer cells and then activated with light to generate heat that may help destroy cancerous tissue while reducing harm to healthy cells.
Although the research remains at a laboratory stage, it contributes to the growing fields of nanotechnology and materials science, and may support future developments in medical technology.
The SA-JINR Summer School supports emerging researchers and international scientific collaboration. Many participants use the programme as a stepping stone towards Master’s and PhD studies.
For Kotoane, the selection carries particular weight. She is the only Honours student among the Master’s and PhD candidates selected for this year’s South African group, and the experience has strengthened her confidence as a young researcher.
Her lecturer, Dr Obed Shirinda, praised Kotoane’s achievement, noting her commitment to academic excellence and research.
“Dimpho has consistently shown exceptional dedication and strong analytical ability during her studies at Sol Plaatje University. The JINR Summer School connects our students to large-scale research facilities and bridges the gap between classroom theory and international research. Opportunities like this are essential in preparing the next generation of physicists to drive innovation and discovery,” Dr Shirinda said.
“I see it as both an honour and a responsibility,” Kotoane said. “I hope my journey will encourage other students to recognise their potential and pursue opportunities beyond their own universities and communities.”
