The Royal Society of South Africa and the Academy of Science of South Africa invite you to a webinar on ‘The Power of Research’’ by Dimitri Markoulides, Director Founder and CEO of OSTA Technologies.

The event woll take place on 16 September 2026 @ 17h00 SAST.   

Abstract: This lecture examines the determinants of rigorous research, integrating cognitive, methodological, and statistical perspectives. Central is psychological inertia, a bias that constrains problem framing and limits exploration of alternatives. Overcoming such constraints through expanded knowledge and interrogation of assumptions is essential for scientific progress. Emphasis is placed on precise problem definition, as inadequate framing produces misleading conclusions. Key statistical constructs – hypothesis testing, statistical power, Type I and II errors, and sample size – are addressed to ensure valid inference and reproducibility. Finally, the distinction between statistical significance and practical relevance underscores the need to align outcomes with meaningful scientific or clinical impact. The lecture positions rigorous thinking, methodological discipline, and cognitive awareness as fundamental drivers of high-quality research.

About the Speaker: Dimitri Markoulides is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of OSTA Technologies, comprising Osta Biomaterials and Structured Methods, and is passionate about delivering solutions that achieve measurable results through structured methodologies. With over 20 years of leadership, consulting, training, mentoring, and technical experience, he has worked with corporations in South Africa and internationally, including the USA, UK, Qatar, and China. His strength lies in guiding organizations to implement structured programs that improve efficiency and profitability, supporting companies in manufacturing, transactional, and healthcare sectors through innovation, Design for Six Sigma (DFSS), and business improvement methodologies. He also developed a medical device technology that has received FDA clearance and is now being commercialized in South Africa and the United States.

Date: Wednesday 16th September 2026
Time: 17h00
Zoom link

ALL WELCOME – PLEASE FORWARD TO COLLEAGUES AND FRIENDS

– a video of this talk will appear on our website about a week after the event.
Website: www.royalsocietysa.org.za
‘promoting science – recognising excellence in research and scholarship’