Docrat took first prize in the category: Elevator pitch presentation for her presentation: The Abili"Tea" Of Rooibos to Protect Against Alzheimer's Disease.
She is a postdoctoral fellow at the Applied Microbial and Health Biotechnology Institute (AMHBI), under the supervision of Prof Jeanine Marnewick, and is involved in the development of in vitro Alzheimer’s models that will aid testing of potential therapeutic agents.
The summit was organised by the Postdoctoral Society at Stellenbosch University, and was open to postdocs internationally.
“This exhilarating summit showcased cutting-edge research, roundtable discussions, workshops, industry tables, satellite events as well as keynote lectures and speakers from around the world,” said Docrat.
“The protective functions of the widely consumed Rooibos herbal tea are of growing interest. Our research is unique as limited information on how Rooibos affects the brain exists. We aim to establish the neuroprotective mechanisms exerted by the antioxidant compounds in Rooibos for the prevention of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders.”
She said pitching her research in under three minutes was no easy task.
“You must know exactly what your main idea is and then present it clearly. Being my first elevator pitch I did not expect to scoop first place, it was an exciting experience. I am thankful to Stellenbosch University for selecting me as the first prize winner! I strongly believe in getting your research recognised beyond the walls of your lab and creating good collaborations.”
