Dr Hafsa Essop, Senior Lecturer in Radiography at the University of Pretoria, has been recognised with the 2026 South African Women in Science Awards (SAWiSA) Distinguished Young Woman Researcher Award in the category of Public Engagement with Science.
Dr Essop is also the Thematic Lead for Diagnostic Imaging at the Centre for Development and Implementation of Point-of-Care Diagnostics, a research entity at the University of Pretoria (UP).
Her research focuses on radiation protection, particularly foetal dosimetry and occupational radiation exposure among pregnant healthcare workers.
She has contributed to the development of PregiDose, a prototype mobile application aimed at improving foetal dose record-keeping and strengthening radiation safety practices.
Her work has gained both national and international recognition, including the prestigious Cousins Award from the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) in Tokyo, Japan in 2023. She has also contributed to international research on in-utero radiation effects and continues to collaborate with experts on improving radiation safety policies and practices.
Dr Essop has published 15 peer-reviewed articles and presented her research at numerous national and international conferences.
Her latest achievement adds to a growing list of accolades recognising her contribution to science, healthcare and public education.
Speaking to Laudium Today, Dr Essop said: “I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this recognition. This award is not only a reflection of my journey, but also a reminder of the importance of creating opportunities for women in science and inspiring the next generation. I am grateful to my family, colleagues, mentors and community for their continued support.”
Laudium Today congratulates Dr Hafsa Essop on this outstanding achievement and wishes her continued success in her research and career.
