Prof. Dr. Mariza Vorster: Leading Theranostic Innovation in South Africa
Breaking New Ground in Nuclear Medicine
Prof. Mariza Vorster stands at the forefront of theranostics and nuclear medicine in South Africa. As Head of the Discipline of Nuclear Medicine at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) and a practicing physician at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, she is recognized as a clinical leader and pioneering researcher. After earning her PhD at the University of Pretoria—becoming the first female nuclear medicine PhD graduate in South Africa—she has devoted her career to advancing molecular imaging and radioligand therapy for cancer patients.
In early 2023, Prof. Vorster introduced Actinium‑225 PSMA (²²⁵Ac‑PSMA) therapy for metastatic prostate cancer in KwaZulu-Natal. This groundbreaking treatment combines precision with patient-centered care, significantly improving outcomes for patients with advanced disease while maintaining a favorable safety profile.
Research Excellence and International Recognition
With more than 120 peer‑reviewed publications, Prof. Vorster has become a recognized authority in PET/CT imaging and theranostic radiopharmaceuticals. Her research explores Ga‑68 tracer development, Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitor (FAPI) imaging, and advanced applications of targeted alpha therapy. Her studies on PSMA theranostics, published in leading journals such as Seminars in Nuclear Medicine, position her among the global thought leaders in the field.
Her pioneering work earned her the Maurits W. Geerlings Next‑Generation Award 2023 from the ICPO Foundation, celebrating her contribution to bringing ²²⁵Ac‑PSMA therapy to South Africa. In addition, she serves as President of the College of Nuclear Physicians of South Africa and Chair of the NuMeRI Scientific Committee, where she plays a decisive role in shaping the national agenda for theranostics and molecular imaging.
Prof. Vorster’s Google Scholar profile reflects the impact of her work, with hundreds of citations acknowledging her influence in advancing targeted radiopharmaceutical therapies, particularly in prostate and gynecologic cancers.
Shaping the Future of Theranostics in Africa
In 2025, Prof. Vorster was awarded a C2 rating by the National Research Foundation (NRF), recognizing her as an established researcher with significant scholarly contributions. Her current focus includes expanding FAPI PET imaging for female cancers and infection-related imaging, ensuring that cutting-edge theranostic solutions meet the specific healthcare needs of South Africa.
Prof. Vorster is also deeply engaged in international collaborations and training programs, including IAEA-sponsored initiatives, helping to prepare the next generation of nuclear medicine specialists across Africa. Through her leadership, research, and commitment to patient care, she is ensuring that South Africa remains at the forefront of theranostics, bridging innovation with access to transform cancer care.