Shining a Spotlight on New Research Talent: Direshnee Naidoo
From intern to published researcher – one young scientist’s growing impact in forestry research
When Direshnee Naidoo walked through the doors of the Institute for Commercial Forestry Research (ICFR) in October 2021, she arrived with a solid academic foundation – a BSc in Genetics and Biology from the University of KwaZulu-Natal – and an eagerness to explore the world of applied science. Selected through the DSI-HSRC Internship Programme, Direshnee was placed at ICFR as a laboratory intern, a role that quickly revealed both her passion and potential.
“I’ve always been fascinated by laboratory techniques and how they can drive solutions in the real world,” Direshnee explains. “So, when I was placed in the Forestry Research and Analytical Laboratory (FRAL), it felt like exactly where I needed to be.”
Direshnee’s time at FRAL was marked not just by participation, but by initiative. Motivated by her exposure to complex research projects and encouraged by colleagues who recognised her promise, she enrolled part-time with UNISA to pursue an Honours degree in Botany – all while continuing her internship at the lab.
Her commitment paid off. At the conclusion of her internship, Direshnee was offered the role of Laboratory Research Assistant, a move that confirmed her growing value to the organisation.
In this new role, Direshnee contributes to the chemical and physical analysis of forestry samples, assists in maintaining advanced instrumentation, and plays a lead role in developing rapid diagnostic tools using Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) – a growing area of importance in the Forestry Industry. These responsibilities have seen her engage with stakeholders across both industry and academia, deepening her understanding of the Sector.
In 2024, Direshnee reached a new milestone: the successful completion of her BSc Honours degree. Her thesis, under the supervision of Dr Garland More (UNISA), led to the publication of a research paper in the South African Journal of Botany, titled: ‘Elemental, phytochemical analysis and determination of antibacterial, antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of leaf extracts of eleven Eucalyptus species.’
It’s a remarkable achievement for any early-career scientist – and a reflection of Direshnee’s drive to contribute to forestry science in a meaningful way.
Looking forward, her journey is only gaining momentum. In 2026, Direshnee will begin her MSc in Plant Pathology, a collaborative project between the ICFR and the Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI) at the University of Pretoria. Her research will explore the use of portable NIRS devices for early detection of wattle rust (Uromycladium acaciae), and the physiological and biochemical effects of infection on affected trees.
“I’m incredibly excited about the possibilities,” she says. “There’s still so much to learn and contribute – and I’m fortunate to be surrounded by mentors and colleagues who believe in that journey.”
For Direshnee, it’s clear that science is more than a career. It’s a purpose. And her story is a shining example of how investment in young scientists can yield lasting returns for the future of forestry.
