Fossil soils, formed long ago and providing clues on possible climatic changes, is one of his abiding interests. Technical , Administrative and Laboratory Staff Essack Abib, Joe Buthelezi, Tad Dorasamy, Peter Dovey, Amanda Klar, Johnson Mkhize, Jothi Moodley, Jonty Ross, Jacob Zuma. The Department has seven well equipped laboratories, geared for soil analysis, plant physiological studies and agrometeorological research. The laboratories are maintained by four full-time technicians and several contract research staff. Instrumentation includes atomic absorption with furnace, X-ray diffractometry, ion liquid chromatography, flame spectrophotometry, automated potentiometry, pressure chamber apparatus and modulus of rupture equipment.
Micrometeorological research is served by comprehensive data-logging and computer facilities.
Plant growth studies are conducted in a controlled environment facility and field experiments on the research farm at Ukulinga. Graduates from other universities may be admitted subject to admission to status and to approval by the Head of Department. Mgt. or M.Sc. Graduates from other universities and also B.Sc. Candidates who do not meet these requirements but who in the opinion of Senate have attained an adequate level of competence may be admitted to the Faculty.