Atmosphere, Oceanography

Tlhonolofatso Steve Tebele, Senior Technician at the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI)

Tlhonolofatso Tebele is a registered Aquatic Scientist (Candidate) with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP), bringing a solid academic and professional background in Marine Sciences, particularly focusing on Coastal Sea Surface Temperature (SST) Trends around South Africa. The work examines coastal SST variations, contributing to a better understanding of how climate change impacts marine ecosystems in this region. SST research is vital for climate science, as it provides data on oceanic temperature shifts, which affect local marine biodiversity and broader climate patterns.

His extensive field experience includes key roles with the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP), where he overwintered on Marion Island as a Meteorological Technician and conducted marine and atmospheric research at SANAE IV in Antarctica, working under the delegation of the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

Tlhonolofatso has evolved into a skilled technician, with expertise in weather and marine instrumentation, furthering his technical skills through his role in the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI) team. He recently obtained his Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Marine Sciences, reinforcing his strong foundation in both practical fieldwork and scientific analysis. His registration as a Candidate Scientist with SACNASP exemplifies his commitment to advancing his career in marine and environmental sciences.