Prof Petro Terblanche – Managing Director of Afrigen Biologics (Pty) Ltd
Since the dawn of modern biotechnology, women have contributed significantly to groundbreaking medical discoveries, yet their stories often remain untold. Despite the rising number of women earning life science degrees over the past three decades, few reach leadership roles in medicine and biosciences within academia or industry. To help close this gap and spotlight the immense contributions of women in biotechnology, the journey of Professor Petro Terblanche offers an inspiring example.
A self-described workaholic who also treasures quality time with her two daughters and her passion for horses, Prof. Terblanche balances a demanding career with personal joys. She serves as Managing Director of Afrigen Biologics (Pty) Ltd in Cape Town, South Africa, home to the global mRNA vaccine technology Hub under the COVAX initiative, where Afrigen is developing an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine candidate. Additionally, she holds a part-time professorship in the Faculty of Health Sciences at North-West University.
Prof. Terblanche has built a remarkable career in research, development, and innovation at prestigious institutions such as the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). Reflecting on earlier times when female representation was scarce, she notes, “I was privileged to be the first woman appointed as a Director in a leading science and technology institution two decades ago.” Today, the landscape is much improved. She proudly shares, “Women now hold strong leadership positions throughout Biotech academia, startups, and corporations. At Afrigen, 67% of staff and five of seven top managers are women, highlighting the empowerment within our organization.”
Overcoming Challenges and Building Expertise
From an early academic standout, Prof. Terblanche’s interests transitioned from zoology to oncology. She earned a Master of Science and Doctor of Science in Medical Oncology from the University of Pretoria, completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard University’s School of Public Health, and further honed her skills in technology management at MIT. With over 200 scientific publications and conference presentations to her name, she was also recognized as a science legend by the Academy of Sciences South Africa. Driven by a commitment to apply knowledge meaningfully, she led pioneering research such as the 1990 Vaal Triangle air pollution health study, assessing its impact on children’s wellbeing outside Johannesburg.
As Afrigen’s Managing Director, Prof. Terblanche emphasizes the collective dedication of the scientists, pharmacists, analysts, engineers, and support teams who bring value daily. “I value our people above all—my enthusiasm for Afrigen’s growth and impact reflects their hard work,” she asserts. Under her leadership, Afrigen has expanded rapidly over the past 18 months, advancing toward establishing a full mRNA vaccine design and manufacturing facility.
Strategic Leadership and Global Partnerships
Prof. Terblanche focuses primarily on strategic partnerships rather than daily operations. She works diligently to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders spanning technology, science, politics, governments, academia, biotech firms, and NGOs connected to the mRNA Hub. She also fosters commercial partnerships aligned with Afrigen’s B2B business model beyond the Hub. This careful alliance-building is critical to the organization’s success.
Recounting the pandemic period, Prof. Terblanche describes the pivotal moment for Afrigen: “We were a small startup, pre-revenue, with just eight staff, developing our first product. Securing capital from our shareholder Avacare Health enabled us to establish an mRNA facility within 18 months—a true lifesaver.” The pace at Afrigen remains intense, dynamic, and full of multifaceted activities, mirroring the vibrant biotech field.
A Message to Emerging Biotech Enthusiasts
Prof. Terblanche advises aspiring biotech professionals that success demands qualities common to all knowledge-driven careers: hard work, dedication, creativity, resilience, and a love for biology. “Biotech is a realm of certainties mingled with unknowns and challenges, where perseverance and problem-solving are essential,” she explains. She encourages students to choose relevant subjects, study diligently, and seek opportunities—such as internships or vacation work—to gain practical experience at organizations like Afrigen. Biotechnology offers vast, diverse opportunities across numerous platforms for those passionate about the field.
Prof. Petro Terblanche’s story underscores the vital role of women leaders in biotechnology and exemplifies vision, perseverance, and impact that future generations can aspire to emulate.
