Prof. Jean Pitot

Prof Jean Pitot is an associate professor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Discipline of Mechanical Engineering in Durban, South Africa. He is also co-founder, deputy director and chief engineer of the University’s Aerospace Systems Research Institute (ASRI). ASRI’s fundamental mission, and Jean’s driving passion, is to develop a sovereign space launch capability for South Africa and the African continent. As ASRI’s chief engineer, he oversees and directs all technical and R&D work conducted by ASRI’s engineering staff. Jean holds a PhD from Stellenbosch University and bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, all in mechanical engineering. He is a Fulbright scholar and member of the American Institute of Aeronautics, Astronautics, and the Royal Aeronautical Society.