Mr Avern Athol-Webb
Mr Athol-Webb holds an MSc in Mechanical Engineer (MScEng UKZN) with experience in academic research, lecturing, and 5 years as a Process Engineer. He served 5 years as company specialist in Plastic production processes, Capital Projects and Engineering Management. His research specialization includes disruptive technologies in 3D printing and automated visual inspection, as well as the future of work with AI systems.
Tel: +27 31 260 1214 | Email: webba@ukzn.ac.za
Mr Christian Basson
Mr Basson is currently pursuing his PhD in Integrated Technical Monitoring for Composite Based Robot Centric Reconfigurable Manufacturing Systems (RMS) and holds an MScEng from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. He is a lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. His specific focus and area of research are Robotics and Reconfigurable Manufacturing Technologies. He is a member and a post-graduate co-supervisor of the Mechatronics and Robotics Research Group.
Tel: +27 31 260 1180 | Email: bassonc@ukzn.ac.za
Prof Glen Bright
Prof Bright is a Professor of Mechatronics, Robotics and Advanced Manufacturing Systems since 2002 and a holder of the James Fulton Chair in Mechanical Engineering. He is currently the Dean and Head of School of Engineering, UKZN. Prof Bright is the leader and supervisor of the Mechatronics and Robotics research Group, (MR2G) since 1995. He holds the following qualifications: BScEng, MScEng, PhD, MBA, Pr Eng.
Tel: +27 31 260 1275 | Email: brightg@ukzn.ac.za
Ms Ingrid Botha
Ms Botha is a lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at the University of KwaZulu-Natal where she obtained a BScEng and MScEng degree. She is currently pursuing her PhD in 4D Printing with her research field encompassing additive manufacturing, polymer science, and soft robotics. She is a member and a post-graduate co-supervisor of the Mechatronics and Robotics Research Group.
Tel: +27 31 260 1211 | Email: bothai@ukzn.ac.za
Dr Jared Padayachee
Dr Padayachee is a senior lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering. He is a senior member and post-graduate co-supervisor of the Mechatronics and Robotics Research Group. His research specialization includes the design of new types of production equipment, the design and analysis of innovative robotic mechanisms and design optimization. His teaching specialization includes the design of machines components, design for fatigue and product design.
Tel: +27 31 260 3216 | Email: padayacheej@ukzn.ac.za
Mr Wesley Dharmalingum
Mr Dharmalingum is a lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and holds BScEng and MScEng degrees from the institution. He has worked in consulting engineering and as a field engineer. He is part of the Mechatronics and Robotics Research Group and has research interests in the fields of robotics, parallel kinematic manipulators, manufacturing, and machine theory. He is currently pursuing a PhD in the research area of robot optimization. He is a member of the South African Institute of Mechanical Engineers.
Tel: +27 31 260 7379 | Email: dharmalingumw@ukzn.ac.za