

About:
Dr GILLIAN ARENDSE
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I’m an Experimental Nuclear Physicist turned science communicator and motivator, passionate about making a positive impact in every interaction. Known for my engaging presentations at schools, conferences and symposiums, I strive to combine my technical expertise with a drive to inspire and empower others. Currently, I serve as Manager of Communication and Stakeholder Relations at NRF-iThemba LABS, a role I’ve held since 2020. My goal is to challenge, uplift and leave people better than I found them through every connection I make.
With a career spanning over two decades in higher education, science engagement, and strategic leadership, I bring a unique blend of academic expertise, stakeholder engagement, and a deep understanding of the South African educational landscape.
My academic foundation—a PhD in Experimental Nuclear Physics from Stellenbosch University—was the launchpad for 11 years of lecturing in the Physics Department, where I developed innovative teaching methods and contributed to postgraduate supervision. This experience, coupled with my involvement in the Advanced Certificate in Education (ACE) programme, shaped my appreciation for educator development and the realities of the schooling system.
In leadership roles at Stellenbosch University and NRF-iThemba LABS, I have successfully led diverse teams, developed strategic frameworks, and managed multiple cost centres. As Deputy Director of Student Recruitment at Stellenbosch University, I spearheaded a national diversity recruitment strategy, while my current role as Manager: Communication and Stakeholder Engagement involves operational oversight, science communication, and outreach initiatives that bridge the gap between research and society.I have cultivated strong relationships with key stakeholders in education, including the WCED, SAOU, ISASA, FEDSAS, and CURRO, and regularly contribute to educator development through motivational speaking, masterclasses, and mentorship programmes. My accreditation as a facilitator of Crucial Mentoring Conversations and completion of the NRF Strategic Management Development Programme further reflect my commitment to personal and institutional growth.

03 Experience
2020-Current
NRF-iTHEMBA LABS
Manager of communication and stakeholder engagement
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Coordinates corporate communication activities (internal, external, event management)
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Oversees science engagement (education, awareness, communication) activities within basic education space
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Driver of science communication through print, radio, and video
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Communicator of science, i.e. co-opted spokesperson of the organization,
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Developing science communication expertise and skills amongst new and emerging researchers
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Part of a task-team to re-establish the Western Cape chapter of the South African Association for Science and Technology Educators (SAASTE)
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Brand-ambassador for NRF-iThemba LABS within the basic education sector (conferences, valedictories, workshops, teacher-appreciation days)
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Programme Director for Science Engagement events (Outreach-event at the General Assembly of the International Astronomy Union, PechaKucha-session at ICSHMO, 20th Anniversary of Human Capital Development at NRF-SARAO, FameLAB semi-finals, research excellence awards, Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, etc.)
2014-2020
STELLENBOSCH UNIVERSITY
Deputy Director of Centre for Student Recruitment
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Manages the activities of recruiters across the country
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Liaise with Faculties to address the recruitment challenges linked to transformation
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Assists in crafting consistent messaging
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Assists in hosting podcasts in partnership with the Corporate Communication office
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Assists in hosting information evenings for prospective students and their parents across the country
2008-2013
NRF-iTHEMBA LABS
Manager of Community Interaction and Training
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Coordinated postgraduate student training
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Managed the science awareness activities within Basic Education
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Coordinated the Abafundi programme that offered tutoring to learners in high schools
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Developed the Sound of Music workshop that was presented at SciFest in Grahamstown
1997-2007
STELLENBOSCH UNIVERSITY
Lecturer in the Department of Physics
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Lecturing undergraduate physics to mainstream and biology-students
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Providing supervisory support for postgraduate projects at Honours, Master’s and PhD-levels within the Nuclear Physics and Laster Physics Research groups
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Lecturer on the Advanced Certificated in Education programme
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Coordinator of the exhibition stand at the annual open day
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Recipient of the Golden Key Award
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Recipient of Teaching Award
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Offering science awareness interventions in schools
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Best presentation award at the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Conference