Maria Francisca Paz y Miño Maya

María joined the Institute in January as Project Coordinator for The Future Forums, led by Steve and Georg Diez. She supports innovative research projects, fosters collaboration and communication across a diverse network of fellows, advisors, and external partners, and drives democracy-focused initiatives at the intersection of technology, finance, and public policy.

Previously, María worked as a Project Manager for Breakthrough Technologies and Finance, leading interdisciplinary research and finance teams and coordinating funding initiatives and proposal portfolios totaling over €50 million. With a STEM and research background, she specializes in translating scientific and technical work into fundable, scalable programs and building cross-sector networks connecting academia, industry, investors, and public institutions. Her experience includes roles with international and mission-driven organizations such as Human Rights Watch, OCHA, and the Permanent Mission of Ecuador to the United Nations.