On Monday, 28 July, the Mole-Rat Laboratory of the Department of Zoology and Entomology at the University of Pretoria opened its doors for an inspiring day of science, curiosity, and muddy paws. In collaboration with the NSTF Brilliants Programme, the lab welcomed top-performing matriculants from each province—young minds currently pursuing degrees in science, medicine, and engineering—for a behind-the-scenes look at Africa’s underground ecosystem engineers: mole-rats.

Led by Dr. Daniel Hart, Dr. PJ Jacobs, and Kerryn Grenfell, learners had the opportunity to get hands-on with the animals and explore how mole-rat research is helping answer major questions in biology, ecology, medicine, and even sports science.

As part of the program, several students, including some representing the MRI, proudly showcased their honours research projects. These included Erin Brooke, who is examining the effects of heavy metal and microplastic pollution on mole-rats in Gauteng; Jarike Stapelberg who is exploring how mole-rats might help us better understand insulin resistance and diabetes; and Megan Holland highlighted their ability to recycle lactic acid after exertion—an insight with exciting applications in sports recovery.

The visiting students left with a deeper appreciation of these often-overlooked animals, and of the critical, real-world research being done at the University of Pretoria. Events like these highlight how science reaches well beyond the lab—informing conservation, improving lives, and inspiring the next generation of scientists.