Ms. Claire Grootboom | Plant Conservation Biology | Young Scientist Award
University of the Western Cape/Agricultural Research Council | South Africa
Claire Grootboom is a PhD candidate at the University of the Western Cape and serves as a Research Technician at the Agricultural Research Council. She holds a strong academic background in biological sciences, supporting her expertise in conservation biology and ecological research. She has gained experience in teaching, tutoring, and supervising students, contributing to academic development at undergraduate and honours levels. Her research focuses on soil biodiversity, particularly the ecological role of soil mites and their response to grazing systems in South Africa. She has published peer-reviewed research and continues to advance knowledge in ecosystem sustainability and environmental conservation.
Featured Publications
Grazing Lawns Affect Vegetation Composition and Diversity of the Endangered Silcrete Fynbos in the Bontebok National Park
– South African Journal of Botany, 2026
Habitat Modification by Grazing Lawns Reduces Soil Mite Diversity in a South African National Park
– African Journal of Ecology, 2026
Claire Grootboom | Plant Conservation Biology | Young Scientist Award