Ashish Misra is a MSc candidate at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. His field of interest is in Biology, with a focus on metal pollution in the Umgeni River. Misra is currently analysing the accumulation of arsenic, mercury and selenium in the water, sediment and muscle tissue of freshwater fish from Inanda and Nagle Dams. He also asseses fish health and the overall edibility of the fish to determine whether they are safe for consumption.
Fate would have it that Ashish ended up studying this field of Biology. ‘When I was presented with this opportunity by my master’s supervisor, I accepted it,’ he said. Misra was drawn to toxicology during his BSc degree and thought it was also a fantastic chance to contribute to society.
Misra is driven by his passion, his need to complete what he has started, and by his friends and family. ‘I have a good support system who are always positive and encouraging,’ he explained.
Misra has presented his work at the 2021 South African Society of Aquatic Scientists (SASAqS) conference and will be presenting at the International Congress of Zoology (ICZ) as well as the PRIS 2021 conference. He hopes that the guests will enjoy the presentations and interaction.
Words: Samantha Ngcongo
