Keneiloe Molopyane

Principal Investigator

Nationality:

South African

Qualifications

BHCS, BA (Hons): University of Pretoria, MSc: University of York, PhD: University of the Witwatersrand

Affiliations

Explorers Club, New York

National Geographic Society, Washington D.C.

1. Describe the role of a Principal Investigator?

Well from my understanding, the Principal Investigator is the selected individual that leads both the fieldwork and research teams in order to achieve their objectives. So as the PI for Gladysvale cave and co-PI for UW105, my job is essentially to ensure that fieldwork happens, is open access to those wanting to participate on a voluntary basis…most important: ensuring that researchers have all the data needed in order for us to tell the story recorded within the sites in which we work in. Basically, a glorified site manager!

2. What skills are important for this role?

Problem solving (on the go) and people management. These two aspects, besides your big brain, are perhaps the most important skills to develop.

3. What qualifications or experience are required for this role?

I think officially, one would need a PhD or higher education qualification equivalent.

4. What challenges or rewards can one expect as the principal investigator of a site?

Challenges: people/time management. It’s not so much about managing people within a tight knit group such as that present within the Rising Star Project…often it becomes an issue of time management. Finding the time to, amongst other things such as visiting researchers, to touch base with the people on the ground “actually” doing the hard labour. I’m not one to shy away from menial labour, and that’s probably why there aren’t that many photos of me in the field (that I would approve of) because I’m often too busy washing blocks or assisting in hauling breccia blocks to pose for a photograph or interview. In fact, in this stage of life, I often shy away from the cameras because I want to be left alone to work with fellow field members, sit at the back of a bakkie (they hardly let me ever do) and eat lunch together that consists of bread rolls, chips (French fries) and perhaps archaar (mango chutney) and palony. Don’t judge us…you know your mouth is watering at this moment!

Rewards: It’s simple, if you treat your team like you would yourself, they will go above and beyond for the project. I have been very blessed to be part of, and in some instances creating, such a nurturing and supportive environment. A team that feels comfortable to push beyond their limits (I insist on many breaks…for my old bones), and one that is very supportive in our endeavors. This extends to my National Geographic Society family as well. The hours are very long…I work 7 days a week at this (including my university teaching responsibilities, but to witness, and read on the accomplishments and appreciations made to someone as simple as working in the field kitchen making sure the coffee or lunch is on time…bliss. Robbie Shone, wrote: “It’s hard to put into words just how much of a privilege it’s been to work in the Cradle of Humankind. Every day here has been filled with discovery, laughter, and a kind of awe… To be part of this journey, surrounded by the most passionate, kind, and inspiring people has been nothing short of unforgettable”.

This is to me the ultimate reward…how we make people feel at “home”.

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