A short summary of Rensu`s research: 

My research primarily involves image processing, machine learning and virtual reality. There is a strong biomedical focus in my research in collaboration with the Department of Physiology and the Tygerberg Campus. What initially drew me into the field is my innate interest in all things visual and the fact that there is a significant amount of information in images that can be extracted and analysed. This is specifically important in the context of medical research, where there exist several very advanced imaging techniques, but sometimes the analysis tools to process these images and make meaningful conclusions lag behind. Using my skills and insights from an engineering perspective, it often becomes possible to answer questions that aid researchers in the medical or life sciences fields.

Research for Impact is one of the core strategic themes in SU`s Vision 2040. Can you describe the (potential) impact of your research?

Most of my research, up to now, has focussed on the investigations of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Trying to understand both the dynamics at play in pathological cells, but also what interventions are possible to help with cell rescue or recovery. As many people are suffering from this incurable disease, any scientific progress that can be made to improve early detection and treatments would have a significant impact on people's lives that are affected by this.

In the ever-changing environment of academia, what are some of the obstacles early career researchers are faced with?

One major challenge is funding certainty. Typically, as an early career academic, you have not fully proven yourself yet, nor have you built enough of a reputation to give potential funders confidence to support your research efforts. Lack of funding makes attracting prospective students with bursaries and funding running projects difficult, which could easily perpetuate the challenge of not developing a strong international reputation.

What would you regard as the most important aspects to consider to effectively support early career researchers?

Mentorship is helpful. Having someone to discuss challenges and ideas with, helps to form your own thinking in the context of someone else's experience. Since academia can be a very isolated experience, just knowing that someone else has or is also struggling with the same things helps from a psychological perspective.

And then other capacity building workshop sessions about grant writing, building your academic career, and how to think about what you do has always been meaningful milestones in academic growth.

What excites you about your work? 

The freedom to investigate the things that I find interesting. Knowing that someone benefits from the time and effort put in makes me strive to do more impactful research.

When you're not in the lab, library or in the field conducting research, what do you do to unwind?

Spending time with my family, going for walks or visiting one of the numerous nature areas/farms in the region.

How has the ECAD programme of SU contributed to your research career? 

It has provided the framework for success. There is some access to funds, formalization of mentorship, many opportunities for training and workshops and access to experts in the field. It definitely accelerated my integration into the academic environment and set me up for success in the future as well.

What advice, if any, would you look to impart to future early career academics?

At times everything will feel overwhelming, but just be patient. You don't need to do everything at once, you can learn a bit each year, and eventually, you will be a well-rounded academic. Also, don't compare yourself too much to senior academics, they have grown fit in doing many things at the same time, and have developed systems to deal with the workload. You will get there too, but it will take time. 

Connect with Rensu and his work!

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=fsfqquUAAAAJ&hl=en

Personal Blog: https://rensu.co.za/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rensu-theart-32320233/