Prof. Mulala Simatele | Environmental Science
| Best Research Article Award
Prof. Mulala Simatele | University of the Witwatersrand | South Africa
Prof. Mulala Simatele is a distinguished British-Zambian geographer and Full Professor at the University of the Witwatersrand, specializing in environmental management and sustainability science. With over three decades of academic and professional experience, he has made transformative contributions to climate change adaptation, natural resource management, and sustainable development policy in Africa and beyond. His work integrates research, teaching, and consultancy, with expertise spanning mining, water resources, food security, biodiversity, waste management, and environmental rehabilitation. Professor Simatele has provided technical guidance to global organizations, governments, and international development agencies, contributing to impactful policy and institutional strategies. A thought leader in environmental systems and sustainability transitions, he continues to mentor future scholars while leading pioneering projects on climate resilience and sustainable resource governance.
Professional Profile
Suitability for the Best Research Article Award
Prof. Mulala Simatele holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Geography from the University of Sussex, where his research examined the socio-economic and environmental dynamics of urban agriculture in Lusaka. He earned a Master of Science in Development Geography and a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Human and Economic Geography from the University of Gothenburg, focusing on migration, urbanization, and structural reforms. His undergraduate studies at the University of Zambia in Education and Teacher Training provided a strong foundation in pedagogy, research, and community development. His multidisciplinary academic background combines environmental science, development geography, and education, positioning him as a global expert on environmental policy and sustainability. This strong educational foundation underpins his expertise in climate change, natural resource management, and environmental governance.
Work Experience
Prof. Mulala Simatele has extensive academic, research, and consultancy experience across Africa, Europe, and South America. At the University of the Witwatersrand, he leads the MSc Programme in Environmental Science and supervises postgraduate research at master’s and doctoral levels. He previously served as Senior Teaching Fellow at the University of St Andrews, developing sustainable development programs and advancing interdisciplinary environmental studies. His career includes technical advisory roles with governments and international organizations, contributing to environmental policy, climate change adaptation, and resource management strategies. He has delivered high-impact projects for the World Bank, FAO, DFID, and other agencies, demonstrating leadership in program design, policy analysis, and impact evaluation. Professor Simatele’s career reflects exceptional dedication to advancing environmental education, sustainability science, and global development.
Awards and Honors
Prof. Mulala Simatele has received recognition for his leadership in environmental research, sustainable development, and international collaboration. He has served as a technical advisor to the Scottish Government on climate resilience and low-carbon transitions and has been appointed to advisory and steering committees of major international organizations. His expertise has been sought by global agencies including the World Bank, FAO, and IDRC for his contributions to climate adaptation, policy development, and natural resource governance. Professor Simatele’s academic achievements are marked by impactful publications, invited talks, and contributions to major sustainability initiatives. His mentorship of emerging researchers and leadership in environmental science have earned him international respect, cementing his status as a thought leader and advocate for science-driven environmental solutions.
Research Focus
Conclusion
Prof. Mulala Simatele distinguished academic career, global consultancy roles, and transformative research in climate change adaptation, natural resource governance, and sustainability science make him highly suitable for the Research for Best Research Article Award. His research offers practical policy relevance, deep scientific insight, and measurable community impact. By amplifying his work’s visibility and integrating measurable impact metrics, he could further solidify his position as a thought leader in environmental research.