Mária Telkes was born in Budapest, then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. From a young age, she displayed a keen interest in science, a passion that would shape her entire life and career.

Telkes pursued her higher education at Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest, focusing on physics and chemistry. She graduated with a B.A. in 1920 and a Ph.D. in physical chemistry in 1924, laying the groundwork for her future scientific endeavors.

Driven by a desire to pursue scientific research in a more dynamic environment, Telkes emigrated to the United States. This move proved pivotal, providing her with the opportunities and resources to explore her interests in solar energy.

Telkes began her career in the US as a biophysicist at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Here she researched energy production in living organisms and developed a photoelectric device to record brain waves, displaying her diverse scientific skillset early on.

Telkes joined the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) as a research associate, becoming deeply involved with the Solar Energy Fund. During this period, she dedicated herself to solar energy research, laying the foundation for her most significant inventions. She developed practical devices such as solar stills.

Telkes designed the Dover Sun House, one of the first true solar-heated residences. Working with architect Eleanor Raymond, she implemented a system using Glauber's salt to store solar energy, a groundbreaking innovation in the field of solar heating. While it experienced some operational challenges, it proved the feasibility of large-scale solar thermal storage.

During World War II, Telkes developed a small, portable solar still that could desalinate seawater, providing potable water for soldiers stationed in arid regions. This invention was critical for survival and demonstrated the practical applications of solar energy in challenging environments.

Telkes spent several years at Westinghouse Research Laboratories following her time at MIT. She continued her research and development efforts in the field of thermoelectric materials and solar energy applications.

After Westinghouse, Telkes worked as a consultant for various companies and institutions, continuing her solar energy research. She developed new solar heating systems and continued to advocate for the widespread adoption of solar energy technologies.

Mária Telkes passed away in her birthplace of Budapest at the age of 94. Her legacy as a pioneering solar energy scientist and inventor continues to inspire researchers and engineers working to create a sustainable future.