Dr Sophie Rees-Jones

Sophie obtained her BSc (Hons) in Biological Chemistry in 1995 and MSc in Synthetic Organic Chemistry in 1997 from the University of Kent in the UK. Fuelled by her passion for Organic Synthesis, she embarked on further academic pursuits and achieved her PhD in 2007 in Organic Synthesis, specializing in the enantioselective total synthesis of (+)-Castanospermine under the guidance of Professor Roger Hunter (Chemistry Department) at the University of Cape Town. Following the completion of her doctorate, Sophie dedicated four years as a postdoctoral fellow in the Hunter Research Group. Her exceptional commitment and expertise led her to assume the role of Research Assistant within the Hunter Research Group, where she actively contributed to various research projects and played a pivotal role in mentoring and supervising (30) post-graduate students.

Due to her passion for implementing health and safety in the laboratory, she served as the Hunter Research Groups’ SHE-Representative and as valued member of the Chemistry Health and Safety Committee since 2011. Additionally, she enjoys teaching and actively participates in outreach programs, aiming to share her knowledge and passion with aspiring individuals. She is since 2007 the Royal Society of Chemistry South Africa (South) Honourary Secretary and in 2023 was Acting Chair South Africa, South Section. Presently, Sophie holds the position of Occupational Health and Safety Officer in Chemistry.

For more information you may visit her LinkedIn Profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-rees-jones-49509131/