Professor of Economics at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, and Chairholder of a Trilateral Research Chair in Transformative Innovation, the 4th Industrial Revolution and Sustainable Development. The Research Chair is based at the University of Johannesburg, and a partnership with the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS) in Kenya, and the Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU) at the University of Sussex.

Initially trained as an economist, I hold a Master’s in Science and Technology Policy from the University of Sussex, and a Doctorate in Development Studies from the University of Oxford. I specialize in the analysis of innovation systems and innovation policy in connection to equitable and inclusive development. My research interests also include policy review and evaluation; international cooperation in science, technology and innovation; as well as research excellence. 

Besides my academic work, I have undertaken a range of advisory assignments with international institutions (such as IDRC, UNDP, UNIDO, and UNESCO, among many others). My experience in this area includes the evaluation of strategic innovation-related programmes of international donor organizations, designing and reviewing regional and national STI policies, as well as supporting the implementation of innovation strategies in African countries. In South Africa, I provide frequent advice on innovation policy to the South African government on various platforms. I am an editor and regular reviewer of multiple international scientific journals. I am also a member of research networks on innovation and development – such as the current President of Globelics, advisory board member of Africalics and Steering Committee member of OpenAIR.