Kuljeet Kaur Marhas has made history by becoming the first Indian woman elected as a Fellow of The Meteoritical Society, a highly esteemed organisation in the field of meteoritics and planetary science. This recognition marks a significant milestone for Indian planetary research as it underscores the contributions made by women in a traditionally male-dominated field.

Prof. Marhas, who serves in the Planetary Science Division at the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in Ahmedabad, was elected as a Fellow for the year 2026. This accolade places her among a select group of scientists celebrated globally for their exceptional work in understanding planetary materials and the origins of our Solar System.

The Meteoritical Society, established in 1933, has been honouring distinguished individuals for over ninety years. Prof. Marhas is only the third Indian to receive this honour, following notable predecessors including the late Devendra Lal and JN Goswami. Her election signifies a notable achievement in Indian planetary science and enhances the nation’s visibility in global research.

Contribution to Planetary Science

Prof. Marhas has gained international recognition for her innovative research on short-lived radionuclides and stable isotopes in extraterrestrial materials. Her scholarly work encompasses a range of topics including pre-solar grains, Calcium-Aluminium-rich Inclusions (CAIs), chondrules, and organic matter found in meteorites. Additionally, her research involves analysing samples from notable space missions such as Stardust, Hayabusa, and the Apollo programme.

Using advanced techniques like Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS) and nanoSIMS, she has made significant strides in decoding isotopic signatures in ancient space materials. This work has provided valuable insights into the formation and evolution of the Solar System over billions of years. As a result, her contributions have advanced the field of cosmochemistry, positioning India prominently in the realm of planetary science research.

Prof. Marhas’s work not only enriches the understanding of cosmic materials but also inspires future generations of scientists in India. Her efforts contribute to the larger scientific narrative about planetary exploration and interstellar materials, marking a progressive step for Indian research in the global arena.

Recognition and Future Directions

Upon receiving this prestigious honour, Prof. Marhas expressed that the recognition is a reflection of the dynamic research environment at the Physical Research Laboratory and the promising future of planetary sciences in India. She noted that studying extraterrestrial materials allows scientists to understand past events while also paving the way for future explorations beyond Earth.

In addition to her recent accolade, Prof. Marhas is a Fellow of the American Geophysical Union and has received the esteemed Devendra Lal Memorial Medal for her noteworthy contributions to planetary science and cosmochemistry. Such accolades highlight her ongoing commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and fostering innovation in her field.

Prof. Marhas’s election as a Fellow underscores the importance of diversity in scientific fields and can serve as an inspiration for young women aspiring to pursue careers in science and technology. Her journey exemplifies how commitment and excellence can lead to breaking barriers and achieving historic milestones in science.

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