IDM Seminar Program
Hosted by the IDM Mentorship Working Group

Wednesday, 10 June 2026 | 13:00 - 14:00
Wolfson Pavilion Lecture Theatre, IDM Building

RSVP Here for Catering Purposes

Speakers

Dr Mbandi Kimbung

Mbandi Kimbung is a Principal Scientist at ROCHE Diagnostics in Cape Town, South Africa. He holds a PhD in Bioinformatics from the South Africa National Bioinformatics Institute (SANBI) at the University of the Western Cape (UWC). His prior research experience includes conducting sero-epidemiological studies at the University of Buea for Malaria candidate vaccine discovery. He also worked at the University of Cape Town, where he integrated bioinformatics approaches with unique clinical and epidemiological study designs to address key gaps in the immunopathogenesis of tuberculosis. In his current role at Roche, Mbandi's work bridges computational science with the commercial value chain, focusing on developing and prototyping reagents for next-generation sequencing workflows. He is deeply passionate about research and translating scientific innovation into practical solutions.

Ian Van Zyl

Ian van Zyl is a Registered Technology Transfer Professional (RTTP), Registered Engineer with ECSA  and Technology Transfer Specialist at Stellenbosch University, where he leads the engineering innovation portfolio. With over a decade of experience in technology commercialization, Ian has supported the progression of numerous technologies from research to market through intellectual property protection, licensing, startup formation, and industry partnerships.

Holding a Master’s degree in Engineering, Ian combines deep technical expertise with a strong commercial focus. He has negotiated multiple licensing agreements, assisted in the creation and growth of university spinouts, and serves on the boards of several technology ventures. His work spans sectors including renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, additive manufacturing, software, agriculture, and climate technology.

Passionate about bridging the gap between research and industry, Ian focuses on transforming high-potential innovations into real-world impact through strategic partnerships, entrepreneurship, and investment readiness.