Phylis Makurunje

Bangor University

Space Propulsion Materials Researcher, United Kingdom

Dr Phylis Makurunje is an emerging leader passionate about the application of outer space technologies everywhere - complex & commonplace. As a Materials Engineer, she contributes to the development of nuclear thermal propulsion systems for space vehicles. This complements her work on nuclear fuels, aerospace ceramics and composite materials. She serves on the Space Traffic Management Committee of the International Astronautical Federation (IAF). As a “Future Leader” of the Foundation for Science and Technology 2023 cohort, she meets and discusses science and technology policies with senior figures from government, parliament, universities, large industry, SMEs, research charities and others. Makurunje previously served as the Executive Secretary of the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC) in support of UN space programs, and the President’s Council of Student Advisors of the American Ceramic Society. She is driven toward advancing STEM education & mentoring in rural Africa.