​Department of Pathology

The vision of the Department of Pathology, Stellenbosch University is to contribute to a thriving Stellenbosch University through staff development, excellence in teaching, training, research, and service in pathology. The Department’s Mission is to contribute to a transformative student experience in pathology, conduct relevant and sustainable research of the highest quality, support and provide state-of-the-art quality pathology services, establish purposeful partnerships and inclusive networks by collaborating with other academic institutions in providing diagnostic services through the pathology service platform at a regional and national level and to the community, and to promote diversity at all levels.

The Department of Pathology comprises the Divisions of Anatomical Pathology, Chemical Pathology, Haematological Pathology, Medical Microbiology, and Medical Virology, which function in partnership with the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), and Forensic Pathology, which functions in partnership with the Western Cape Provincial Department of Health and Wellness: Forensic Pathology Services. 

Contact us:

Prof. Gert U. van Zyl, Executive Head: Department of Pathology

+27 21 938 9354
[email protected]

 

"We are driving innovation at the intersection of technology, post-mortem imaging, research and forensic medicine — redefining the way we investigate death in South Africa." 

Our divisions

Anatomical Pathology

This division focuses on disease study at the tissue level, offering diagnostic services, teaching and research. Students gain hands-on experience in histopathology, cytology and molecular pathology. Read more>

Forensic Medicine

A critical field that applies medical knowledge to medico-legal death investigations. Students learn how in-depth knowledge of pathology and thorough documentation contribute to judicial processes, working closely with forensic experts in post-mortem examinations and medico-legal assessments. Read more>

Medical Microbiology

This division covers bacterial, fungal and parasitic infectious diseases and the immune responses to these infections. Our research focus incudes antimicrobial resistance, pathogenesis, and molecular / genomic diagnostic tools. Training includes diagnostic microbiology and serology, infection control and antimicrobial stewardship. Read more>

Chemical Pathology

This division investigates biochemical changes indicative of disease through analysis of blood and bodily fluids. The division provides essential diagnostic services, patient monitoring and clinical biochemistry training while advancing health outcomes through research and expert consultation. Read more>

Haematological Pathology

This programme focuses on blood-related diseases. It covers diagnosing and monitoring conditions such as anaemia, leukaemia and clotting disorders. Students also engage in laboratory techniques and research in blood pathology. Read more>

Medical Virology

This division diagnoses and studies a wide range of viruses including HIV, hepatitis viruses and those causing emerging infectious diseases. These activities, many conducted in collaboration with other institutes, also provide training opportunities for postgraduate students. Read more>