Francois M. O. Email & Phone Number

Well-trained natural scientist.Friendly disposition.Solid foundation in scientific thinking, scientific research & scientific writing.Meticulous. Passionate about training & mentoring.Graduate training in Chemistry & Biochemistry. Post-graduate qualifications in Biochemistry (Molecular Biology/Enzymes).Employed in wine chemistry (oenology) at the Agricultural Research Council (ARC).Research focus: analyses of wine colour (anthocyanins); wine polyphenols (tannins); wine volatile aroma components (using GC-FID, SPME & GC-MS).Participated in a multi-institute collaboration to create a database, for the South African wine authority, of complete wine profiles ("fingerprints") of all the major South African wine cultivars, in a pursuit to counter wine adulteration.Additional research projects: Investigation into the metals in wine; Colour stability of fortified wines exposed to an accelerated aging process; Acetaldehyde production by various yeasts during alcohol fermentation (also written up as my M.Sc. thesis);Winter fermentation of frozen wine grapes & musts.Currently, involved in a confidential Bio-Fuels project, with the aim of branching out into the renewable energy sector. Future vision: using extensive experience in the agricultural sector, and keen interest in computer technology, to move into AgriTech.