Mhlambululi Mafu

Instructor

Contact

mhlambululi.mafu@case.edu
Rockefeller Building 105C

Other Information

Degree: BSc (Hons) Physics, National University of Science and Technology (2008)
MSc Physics, University of KwaZulu-Natal (2011)
PhD Physics, University of KwaZulu-Natal (2014)
Master in Intellectual Property, Africa University (2018)
MS Business Analytics, Rochester Institute of Technology (2022)

About

Dr. Mhlambululi Mafu joined the Department of Physics as a Visiting Assistant Professor in August 2022 and was appointed Instructor for calculus-based introductory physics effective July 1, 2026. He has a background in quantum information science and will continue to work in this area.

He co-teaches large-enrollment, calculus-based introductory physics, including PHYS 121 (Mechanics). His instruction uses active learning: structured class discussion, demonstrations, and targeted work on common student misconceptions. Office hours are a core part of his teaching. He uses them to discuss student reasoning, identify misconceptions, and strengthen understanding of the material, including in cases where students have used AI tools. The aim is practical: stronger instructional methods and better student understanding.

He is committed to inclusive, student-centered teaching and to service in the department, university, and profession. He is a two-time nominee for the J. Bruce Jackson, MD Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Mentoring(2025, 2026) and a nominee for the Carl F. Wittke Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching (2025).

Selected Publications

  • Mafu, M., & Mazhandu, F. (2025). Leveraging Equity and Inclusion to Demystify and Diversify Undergraduate Quantum Science Education. The Physics Teacher, 63(2), 90–94.
  • Mafu, M. (2023). Leveraging Disruptive Technologies and Systems Thinking Approach at Higher Education Institutions. In The Sustainable University of the Future (pp. 25–42). Springer.

Full list available on Google Scholar.