Dr Adriana Marais wins global award
NITheCS is delighted to celebrate the achievement of Dr Adriana Marais, who has been awarded the WOMEN IN TECH® Global Most Disruptive Award, powered by Amazon. The announcement was made at an awards ceremony in Paris on 14 November 2025, where women from around the world were recognised for exceptional contributions to science and technology.
Women in Tech praised Dr Marais as “a pioneering theoretical physicist whose research explores quantum effects in biology and the cosmic origins of life’s building blocks.” Her leadership roles highlight a career dedicated to pushing scientific boundaries. As Director at the Foundation for Space Development Africa and Head of Science for the Africa2Moon mission, she is actively shaping Africa’s first lunar radio telescope. Set to launch with China’s Chang’e-8 mission, the project will enable groundbreaking scientific observations impossible from Earth.
In addition to her contributions to space science, Dr Marais is the founder of Proudly Human where she leads the Off-World Project. This is a series of extreme-environment habitation experiments that advance preparation for life on the Moon, Mars, and other off-world environments, while also deepening understanding of resilience on Earth.
Her impressive career spans roles as a researcher at Stellenbosch University and NITheCS, as well as expert positions at Singularity University and committee membership for GESDA – Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator. Her recent book, Out of this World and Into the Next, reflects a lifelong commitment to exploration-driven innovation and humanity’s future beyond Earth.
Reflecting on receiving the award, Dr Marais shared her gratitude and characteristic humour:
“Those who know me may agree ‘Most Disruptive’ is an apt description.”
She continued:
“I am humbled to receive this recognition amongst all the out-of-this-world finalists and winners. I dedicate myself to continue working towards a future that makes us proud, and dedicate this award to all humans compelled by the allure of the unknown, who tirelessly pioneer new paths for our society, whether on Earth or beyond.”
She also expressed appreciation for Dr Carla (Sharpe) Mitchell, Mission Director of Africa2Moon, describing her as “the visionary leading Africa's first space mission.” Dr Marais extended heartfelt thanks to her sister, Ellen, for accompanying her to the ceremony, and applauded the inspiring work showcased by the global Women in Tech community.
NITheCS congratulates Dr Marais on this extraordinary international recognition and celebrates her continued leadership in science, innovation, and human exploration.
