Dr. Kgomotso Mokoala: Advancing Theranostics and Molecular Imaging in South Africa
A Rising Leader in Nuclear Medicine
Dr. Kgomotso Mokoala is a dedicated physician and researcher whose work is shaping the future of nuclear medicine and theranostics in South Africa. Based at the University of Pretoria’s Department of Nuclear Medicine, she plays a vital role in pioneering research on novel PET tracers and radioligand therapies, building on the department’s reputation as a leading center for molecular imaging and targeted cancer treatments.
In 2025, she was awarded a C2 rating by South Africa’s National Research Foundation (NRF), officially recognizing her as an established researcher whose scholarly contributions demonstrate both consistency and impact. This milestone underscores her position as one of the promising academic voices advancing precision oncology in Africa.
Research Contributions and Clinical Innovation
Dr. Mokoala’s research centers on developing and evaluating innovative radiopharmaceuticals that improve the diagnosis and treatment of complex cancers. She has co-authored more than 60 peer-reviewed publications, with her studies cited over 750 times in international journals, reflecting the global resonance of her work.
Her contributions include pioneering studies on Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitor (FAPI) PET/CT imaging, which has shown great promise in improving staging and detection of malignancies such as cervical, endometrial, and melanoma cancers. She has also collaborated on groundbreaking clinical trials involving Actinium‑225 PSMA therapy for advanced prostate cancer and peptide receptor radioligand therapy, extending cutting-edge treatments to patients who had limited options.
Through her work, Dr. Mokoala is bridging the gap between research and clinical practice, ensuring that new theranostic tools not only reach the laboratory but also translate into real benefits for patients across Africa.
Recognition and Future Vision
Beyond her growing publication record, Dr. Mokoala is recognized for her contribution to South Africa’s leadership in molecular imaging and theranostics. Her NRF C2 rating reflects the high regard of her peers and her status as a rising academic leader in nuclear medicine.
As she continues her work at the University of Pretoria, Dr. Mokoala is committed to expanding access to novel PET tracers and targeted radioligand therapies, strengthening Africa’s role in global theranostics research. With her combination of clinical expertise, innovative research, and dedication to patient-centered care, she represents a new generation of African nuclear medicine specialists who are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in precision cancer treatment.