Biography
Aligned to the University’s Vision 2030, he is committed to positioning the university’s research, innovation and partnerships system as an integrated driver of knowledge creation, societal impact and Africa-centred global engagement.
As an executive leader, Prof Muronga champions ethical governance, inclusive research culture, digital and research infrastructure development, and long-term sustainability as foundational enablers of a thriving research and innovation ecosystem. His work advances transdisciplinary collaboration, innovation-driven impact, and the strengthening of Africa’s scientific and knowledge systems within the global landscape.
Through academic excellence and collaborative engagement with industry, government and networks, he positions Nelson Mandela University as a dynamic African institution contributing transdisciplinary skills and knowledge creation for society. He plays a pivotal role in postgraduate capacity development, and the mentorship of emerging scholars. Prof Muronga inspires learners to pursue maths and science, and promotes an interest in science among citizens.
Prior to taking up his position as Deputy Vice-Chancellor in 2024, he was Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science at the University from 2016 to 2024.
His postgraduate qualifications include an MSc in Theoretical Physics from the University of Cape Town (UCT); a PhD in Theoretical Physics from the University of Minnesota (USA). His postdoctoral research was at the Goethe University Frankfurt and at the GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research in Germany, which further expanded his international research profile before he returned to South Africa to assume senior academic leadership roles.