Curriculum Vitae
Michael Hlongwane
I’m a Physics PhD candidate at the University of KwaZulu-Natal with hands-on experience teaching Basic Numeracy (BNMR) and supporting learners in physics and calculus. I enjoy building clear, well-documented workflows for experiments and analysis, and I’m interested in translating research into practical, useful technology.
Highlights
Current
PhD (Physics) — UKZN
Teaching
BNMR (BSS4) — Howard College
Strength
Structured analysis & reporting
Tools
Python • LaTeX • Data workflows
Courses & workshops
- Lidar safety course — 25 Aug 2021
- International Space Weather Camp — 13 Aug 2021
- National Astrophysics and Space Science Programme (NASSP) — 06–27 Jun 2019
- Digital Citizen Plus programme — 17 Sep 2017
- Nuclear Physics Conference — 26–27 Jul 2016
What I do
Core areas I work in and how I like to work.
Materials
Bi–Sb thermoelectric alloys: synthesis, characterisation, and structure–property work.
Thin films
PLD thin films & targets: preparation, process optimisation, and reporting.
Teaching
BNMR (BSS4) teaching with structured learner guidance.
Tools
Python and LaTeX for analysis, plotting, documentation, and reproducible reports.
Education
Qualifications and research foundations.
PhD (Physics)
University of KwaZulu-Natal • Current
Currently doing a PhD in Physics.
MSc (full time)
University of KwaZulu-Natal • 2022
Research-focused postgraduate training and independent project work.
BSc Hons Physics
University of KwaZulu-Natal • 02-Feb-2021
Dissertation: Study of magnetospheric substorms during different geomagnetic storm phases.
BSc Applied Mathematics and Physics
University of Zululand • 25-Nov-2019
Majors: classical mechanics & properties of matter; photonics & waves; nuclear physics; calculus; chemistry.
Experience
Roles that show teaching, support, and delivery under deadlines.
BNMR (Basic Numeracy) Teacher — BSS4
Howard College • 2024–2025
- Taught Basic Numeracy (BNMR) to BSS4 students.
- Provided structured academic support and guidance.
Tutoring and Lab Assistant
University of KwaZulu-Natal • Jun 2021 – Dec 2021
- Demonstrated practical applications of physical sciences.
- Monitored progress and provided solutions/explanations to problems.
- Encouraged learner interest in research through presentations.
Academic Assistant
Mpumalanga Department of Education • Jan 2021 – Apr 2021
- Supported a practical teaching environment and logistics.
- Assisted with preparation and access to teaching materials.
- Tutored students during late afternoon hours.
Tutoring and Lab Assistant
University of Zululand • Jan 2018 – Dec 2018
- Held extra classes (Calculus 1 & 2) and maintained office hours.
- Evaluated/graded assignments and maintained records.
- Facilitated tutorials and supported instructor-led activities.
Projects
Selected technical work (real images only).
Thermoelectric Materials (Bi–Sb Alloys)
Research on Bi–Sb alloy thermoelectrics: processing, characterisation, and structure–property evaluation.
PLD Thin Films & Target Preparation
Thin-film fabrication using pulsed laser deposition (PLD), including target preparation workflows and characterisation-driven optimisation.
Arduino Temperature Controller (Peltier + LCD)
Prototype temperature control system using Arduino Uno, LCD1602, and a power stage to drive TEC modules for experiments.
References
Academic and professional contacts who can confirm my roles.
Dr Thulani Jili
Head of Department • University of Zululand (Department of Physics)
Dr Zolile Mtumela
Senior Lecturer in Physics • Sol Plaatjie University (Department of Physical and Earth Sciences)
Mr JJ Myeni
School Principal • Mpumalanga Department of Education
Contact
Email, phone and GitHub (address intentionally omitted).