Staff Profiles

PhD Chemistry (BIUST, 2020 - 2023)

MSc Chemistry (BIUST, 2017 - 2019)

BSc Chemistry and Environmental Science (UB, 2012 - 2015)

BSc (Part 1) (BUAN, 2011 - 2012)

Dr. James T.P. Matshwele or ‘Jimmah’ as affectionally known embarked on his research journey in 2014 within the laboratories of Prof Nareetsile and Dr. Mapolelo, focusing on the design, synthesis, and characterization of transition metal complexes to assess their biological activities. This journey led to the culmination of his BSc, MSc, and PhD research within the same domain. Commencing as a research assistant, he progressed to roles as a Teaching Assistant and Demonstrator at UB.

Dr. Matshwele transitioned to Botho University, initially serving as a lab assistant and ascending to the position of Fellow before departing. Notably, he assumed the role of Head of Department for Applied Sciences at Botho University from 2021 to 2023.

His research interests are centered on the synthesis and characterization of transition metal complexes, specifically exploring their biological activities pertinent to drug design against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Additionally, he is engaged in research related to renewable energy technologies, with a focus on Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSC) incorporating complex dyes.

His contributions extend to crystallographic analysis, a pivotal aspect of drug discovery. Through this method, the atomic and molecular structure of compounds is determined, providing crucial insights for the development of potential drugs. Dr. Matshwele's endeavors are aligned with Botswana Vision 2036, as well as the African MDGs and SDGs.

Undergraduate and Postgraduate Courses: 
Bioinorganic Chemistry 

General Chemistry

Main group Chemistry

Coordination Chemistry

Solid State Chemistry

Molecular Symmetry 

Bioinorganic Chemistry

• Drug design, synthesis and testing 
• Mode of action studies

Renewable Energy Technology

• Dye design synthesis and testing 
• Solar cell prototype design 
• DSSC Anode green synthesis using Botswana local weed plants
• Ionic liquid/Acido complex design and synthesis for DSSC as redox mediators
• Biodiesel production

Other Research 

•  Quantum nanodots/sheets/rods and their various applications to health, energy and environment

• Bioinorganic Chemistry 
• Green Nanoparticle Synthesis (used as anode in DSSC)
• Ionic liquid/Acido complex redox mediators
• Transition metal complexes as dyes in DSSC

1. Matshwele, James TP, Sebusi Odisitse, Ofentse Mazimba, Taye B. Demissie, Moses O. Koobotse, Daphne T. Mapolelo, Keagile Bati et al. "Cobalt Pyridyl Complexes Against Drug-Resistant Bacteria: Synthesis, Characterization, Antibacterial Properties, Mode of Action, and Molecular Docking Studies." Inorganica Chimica Acta (2024): 121911
2.  Matshwele, James TP, Mosimanegape Jongman, Taye B. Demissie, Moses O. Koobotse, Ofentse Mazimba, Daphne Mapolelo, Keagile Bati et al. "Reduction of Bacterial Folic Acid Production and Cell Membrane Disruption of Klebsiella pneumoniae by Two Amino Substituted Pyridyl Compounds: An Experimental and In Silico Approach." Chemistry Africa (2023): 1-11.,

• ResearGate:  https://www.researchgate.net/profile/James-Matshwele
• Google Scholar:  https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=WimH4xsAAAAJ&hl=en
• Scopus:  https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=57216181642
• WOS: https://www.webofscience.com/