Lecturer, University of South Africa, South Africa 📝
Charmy Starnod Twala is a dedicated lecturer and researcher in the Department of Life and Consumer Sciences at the University of South Africa (UNISA). With a strong background in biochemistry, bioinformatics, and computational drug discovery, she specializes in structure-based virtual screening, molecular docking, and dynamic simulations targeting DNA and cellular proteins. As a member of the South African Society for Bioinformatics (SASBi), she actively contributes to cutting-edge research in molecular modeling, lead optimization, and ADMET predictions. Her work aims to develop preclinical drug candidates for further in-vitro and in-vivo testing, fostering advancements in therapeutic sciences. 🔬📚
Profile
Google Scholar
Education 🎓
Charmy Starnod Twala is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computational Biochemistry at the University of Johannesburg. She holds a Master of Science (MSc) in Biochemistry and Bioinformatics from Wits University (2017), a Higher Diploma (HDIP) in Computer Sciences (2015), and a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biochemistry and Genetics (2014) from the same institution. She also completed a Certificate of Competence in Educational Assessments & Evaluation (2019) from Primeserv. Her multidisciplinary academic journey combines biochemistry, genetics, and computational sciences, providing her with a strong foundation for innovative research in drug discovery. 🎓🔍
Experience 👩🏫
With extensive experience in teaching and research, Charmy Starnod Twala has been a Lecturer at UNISA since 2019, specializing in Life Sciences. She previously worked as an Online Adjunct Instructor at the University of the People (USA) in 2022, teaching Biology for Health Studies. From 2018 to 2019, she was an Academic Intern and Teaching Assistant at Wits University, where she contributed to courses in Pharmaceutics, Life Sciences, and Biochemistry. Her teaching expertise extends to both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and she has supervised over 20 Life Sciences Honours students, along with multiple MSc candidates in bioinformatics and biochemistry. 📖🧪
Research Interests 🔬
Charmy Starnod Twala’s research focuses on computational approaches to drug discovery and development. She utilizes structure-based virtual screening, docking, and molecular dynamics simulations to target DNA and cellular proteins. Her work incorporates Density Functional Theory (DFT) analysis, bioisosteric replacements, and ADMET predictions to optimize lead compounds for drug development. Her research aims to bridge computational modeling with experimental validation through in-vitro and in-vivo studies, ultimately contributing to the design of novel therapeutic agents. She supervises multiple postgraduate projects that align with these research areas, making significant contributions to bioinformatics and molecular pharmacology. 🧬💊
Awards & Honors 🏆
Throughout her career, Charmy Starnod Twala has demonstrated excellence in both teaching and research. She has received prestigious grants and fellowships, recognizing her contributions to computational biochemistry and bioinformatics. Her involvement in the development of Microbial Physiology and Pharmacology modules at UNISA highlights her dedication to curriculum innovation in life sciences education. Her leadership and academic achievements continue to impact the fields of computational drug discovery and molecular modeling. 🎖️🏅
Publications 📚
🔹 Modified ezetimibe drug for cancer treatment (2023) – U.S. Patent Application 18/019,067
📌 Link
🔹 Ezetimibe Anticancer Activity via the p53/Mdm2 Pathway (2025) – Biomedicines, 13(1), p.195
📌 [Cited by: Pending]
🔹 Evaluation of in-vitro and in-silico antidiabetic potential, glucose metabolism, antioxidant, cytotoxicity, and phytochemical content of Ipomoea bolusiana Schinz and Ipomoea crassipes Hook tubers (2025) – Phytomedicine Plus, 5(1), p.100735
📌 [Cited by: Pending]
🔹 Novel dihydrobenzofuran derivatives: design, synthesis, cytotoxic activity, apoptosis, molecular modelling and DNA binding studies (2024) – Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, 42(23), pp.12742-12760
📌 [Cited by: Pending]
🔹 Pd-catalyzed synthesis, characterization, and biological evaluations of pyrazole derivatives: DFT, molecular modelling, and antioxidant studies (2024) – Journal of Organometallic Chemistry, 1005, p.122994
📌 [Cited by: Pending]
🔹 Synthesis, spectral characterization of pyrazole derived Schiff base analogs: molecular dynamic simulation, antibacterial and DNA binding studies (2023) – Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, 41(23), pp.13724-13751
📌 [Cited by: Pending]
🔹 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives: synthesis, characterization, antifungal activity, DNA binding investigations, TD-DFT calculations, and molecular modelling (2023) – Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, 43(4), pp.1723-1755
📌 [Cited by: Pending]
Conclusion 🏆
Charmy Starnod Twala is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions to bioinformatics and computational drug discovery, combined with a strong academic record and impactful research, make him a deserving recipient. Strengthening global networks and industry ties would further enhance his research impact. 🚀👏