For Women’s Month, multimedia content producer Jesi Townsend has compiled a series on Women in Science at the University of the Western Cape’s (UWC) Faculty of Science.

Meet the inspiring women who are at the forefront of scientific breakthroughs.

Imagine a nurse in a rural clinic, armed with an electrochemical sensor. She pricks your finger, places a drop of blood on the sensor, and without waiting and with no need for transporting samples to distant labs, you have instant results. Just like that, you have healthcare on the spot.

This is the kind of research Dr Candice Cupido develops in her lab.

A senior lecturer in Chemistry at the University of the Western Cape, she holds a PhD in the development of electrochemical nanobiosensors for the optimisation of TB treatment. 

If that is a bit too much to process, she develops and works with sensors able to monitor how drugs digest in the body on a scale that’s even smaller than what you’re able to view through a microscope.

Monitoring drug metabolism entails using tiny electrodes, like microscopic detectives, silently probing your blood or urine.

Their mission? To track drug levels and decode your metabolism, or simply put: how your body goes about breaking down certain chemicals.

The tools are electrochemical sensors which are often described as the unsung heroes of precision medicine.

“These sensors allow us to understand how swiftly or sluggishly your body processes drugs. Whether it’s tuberculosis, diabetes, COVID-19, or cancer,” said Dr Cupido.

These unassuming devices, often no larger than a fingertip, hold immense potential for revolutionising healthcare, especially in South Africa. 

“I love research, student supervision, and have a huge passion for teaching science to young people. Being part of the frontlines, armed with nanomaterials, is an exciting journey for me,” she said.

Her wish is to capture the attention of future fellow science enthusiasts, whether a budding researcher or a curious soul, to consider the buzz of electrochemistry.

For her, it is about unlocking secrets, improving lives, and leaving your fingerprint on the microscale canvas. 

“Electrochemical sensors nudge you toward innovation. You’re not just studying; you’re shaping the future,” said Dr Cupido.

“As a lecturer, my days are a delightful blend of research, teaching, and student interactions. When undergrads and postgrads experience those ‘aha’ moments, it fuels my passion. Together, we unravel mysteries, scribble equations, and ignite curiosity. Students get to dive into real-world projects, tinkering with sensors, nanomaterials, and polymers. Their enthusiasm is contagious and priceless.”

Dr Cupido says that another favourite activity as a lecturer is coordinating the work-study programme, where students get to sow back into the institution by assisting as tutors, demonstrators and lecturing assistants while finishing their own studies.

WATCH: UWC's Women in Science Research: Dr Candice Cupido