Mahalaqua Noor Named Among Cambridge’s “21 to Watch” for 2026
Mahalaqua (Mila) Noor has been recognised as one of the standout innovators in the 2026 21 to Watch awards, a prestigious programme celebrating founders and researchers tackling some of the world’s most urgent health and climate challenges.
Organised by Cambridge Management Consulting, the annual “21 to Watch” list highlights early-stage innovators whose work shows exceptional potential for real-world impact. The 2026 cohort brings together deep-tech entrepreneurs and scientists addressing critical global issues—from sustainable energy to next-generation healthcare solutions.
Advancing Maternal and Fetal Health
Noor, a Gates Cambridge alumna and postdoctoral Bye-Fellow at the University of Cambridge, is being recognised for her pioneering research into cytomegalovirus (CMV) transmission during pregnancy. Her work focuses on understanding how the virus crosses the placenta and developing antiviral strategies to prevent infection.
CMV is a leading cause of congenital infections worldwide, with potentially severe consequences for newborn health. By targeting the mechanisms of placental transmission, Noor’s research aims to improve outcomes for both mothers and babies—addressing a major yet under-recognised global health challenge.
A Leader Among Deep-Tech Innovators
Noor is one of seven individuals selected in the “People” category of the 2026 awards, alongside innovators working across climate technology, AI, and advanced materials. Collectively, the winners represent a new generation of scientists translating cutting-edge research into scalable solutions with societal impact.
The broader Top21.2026 list also includes breakthrough companies and technologies spanning areas such as energy storage, smart textiles, and AI-driven healthcare—underscoring Cambridge’s role as a global hub for deep-tech innovation.
Recognising Future Impact
Now in its eighth year, the “21 to Watch” programme has become a respected marker of entrepreneurial excellence within the UK’s innovation ecosystem. It focuses on identifying individuals and ventures at an early stage—before widespread recognition—whose ideas have the potential to shape the future.
For Mahalaqua Noor, the award highlights not only her scientific contributions but also the real-world potential of her research to transform maternal and fetal healthcare on a global scale.