Ken Nixon

Deeply passionate about science and engineering. Broad research interests and expertise include earthing and lightning protection, high voltage engineering, high performance computing, as well as information and software engineering. Recently ventured into the exciting field of Quantum Computing. Actively involved with the Joburg Centre for Software Engineering (JCSE) at Wits, and also consult for Wits Enterprise, and Innopro (part of the Global Africa Projects Group). National chief judge for the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists since 2006, having previously been a judge at both regional and national level, as well as a participant. A Fellow of the South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (SAIEE) and a Member of the IEEE. Completed a PhD in 2006 titled "The lightning transient behaviour of a driven rod earth electrode in multi-layer soil". Author or co-author of more than 50 papers in the areas of High Voltage Engineering, Earthing, Lightning Protection and Industrial EMC. Supervised one postdoctoral student, six PhD students (graduated), 24 research MSc students (graduated), and currently supervising 1 PhD student and 8 MSc students Regular consultant to industry in the field of earthing, lightning protection and electromagnetic compatibility. Lecture and consult within the field of information and software engineering. Practical experience and knowledge within the two different, almost opposing, fields is unusual and often yields unique insights into problems and enables better solutions, especially within the Smart Grid context. Between Feb 2007 and Mar 2013 served as a member of Council of the SAIEE, and from Aug 2007 to Dec 2020 as an elected Wits University Senate. Have served (and continue to serve) on several University committees. Awarded the Keith Plowden Young Achievers Award for "commitment to education at secondary and tertiary levels particularly in electrical engineering" the SAIEE in Nov 2008.