Rate My Professor Elizabeth Erasmus

Prof Elizabeth (Lizette) Erasmus is a professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of the Free State, within the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences. She obtained all her degrees from the University of the Free State, including a BSc in 2001, a BSc Honours in Chemistry in 2002, an MSc in Chemistry in 2003, and a PhD in Chemistry in 2005. Her early career included work as a senior researcher at the CSIR before returning to academia at the UFS, where she has built an extensive record of research and student supervision. Prof Erasmus has published more than 80 research papers and holds an H-index of 21. She has supervised numerous MSc and PhD students and maintains international collaborations, including with institutions in the Netherlands and at UC Davis.

Prof Erasmus began her research in organometallic chemistry, focusing on the preparation and characterisation of complex molecules to understand their reactivity and properties. Her work later expanded into heterogeneous catalysis, nanomaterials, and surface chemistry. Her current research emphasises applied and sustainable chemistry solutions, including the development of biodegradable superabsorbent polymers from wattle tree bark using green solvents, biochar for soil restoration, natural growth enhancers such as wood vinegar, slow-release fertilisers, hydrophobic sponges for oil spill remediation, materials for recovering gold from e-waste, and methods to convert carbon dioxide into valuable products. In August 2025, she delivered her inaugural lecture titled “Molecules of Change: Chemistry for a Better Tomorrow,” highlighting chemistry’s role in addressing climate change, resource scarcity, and environmental challenges. Professional Email: null