The NRF-SAIAB is pleased to announce the 2025 SAIAB Annual Smith Memorial Lecture, to be held on Thursday, 23 October 2025.
The Annual Smith Memorial Lecture honours the remarkable legacy of Professor J.L.B. and Margaret Mary Smith, whose pioneering work in ichthyology laid the foundation for aquatic biodiversity research in South Africa.
This year’s distinguished speaker is Professor Mike Bruton, former Director of SAIAB (1982–1994), whose leadership was instrumental in preserving the Smiths’ scientific heritage and advancing the Institute’s research profile.
Date: Thursday, 23 October 2025
Time: 14h30 for 15h00 – 17h00
Venue: NRF-SAIAB Lecture Room, Somerset Street, Makhanda
Hybrid event: In-person and via Zoom
Professor Bruton will present a lecture titled:
“The Significance of Charles Darwin’s Visit to the Cape of Good Hope in April 1836.”
His talk will explore how Charles Darwin’s short visit to the Cape, and his interactions with leading scientists of the time, helped shape his scientific thinking and contributed to the development of his Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection. Professor Bruton will also share insights from the 2025 bicentennial commemorations of Darwin’s visit, highlighting key lessons for heritage and conservation through the international Darwin200 Project.
This hybrid event is open to NRF-SAIAB staff, alumni, the public and invited guests.
For Zoom attendance, please register in advance using the following link:
🔗 https://zoom.us/meeting/register/FJyjtDVeQW620lnJi57FcA
Meeting ID: 956 1553 4478
Passcode: 988455
If you plan to attend in person, please RSVP to Ms Mbali Ngulube (m.ngulube@saiab.nrf.ac.za) and indicate any special dietary requirements before Wednesday, 15 October 2025.
Join us as we celebrate the enduring legacy of the Smiths and their contribution to aquatic science in South Africa.
