Martin DuBois, an American, is introduced in 16.078 as the science expert for the prime crew of the Hail Mary. Just five paragraphs before, Stratt had expressed concerns about “sexual tension” on the mission and just one paragraph before, Grace had accused Stratt of being “afraid astronauts can’t keep it in their pants”. Upon meeting DuBois, Grace makes further makes fun of Stratt by mockingly saying to her “Goodness me! DuBois appears to be be black!”

DuBois refers to Grace as “Dr. Grace” because it was how he was raised but says Grace can call him “Martin”.

In 16.082 we’re told DuBois has three doctorates, in physics, chemistry, and biology and Stratt argues that his breadth makes him the best choice for science expert on the mission. It is from DuBois that Grace finds out he has the coma-resistance markers.

DuBois also appears in chapter 17 during his training with Grace where he is very open and matter-of-fact about his sexual relationship with Annie Shapiro (whom he addresses as “Dr. Shapiro”, even during sex, presumably because he was raised that way).

In Chapter 18, we find Science Specialist DuBois drinking a glass of 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon which he had opened in advance to allow it to breathe. DuBois tells Grace that he assumed Grace and Stratt “were engaged in sexual congress”.

We’ll continue with more facts about Martin DuBois in a future beanbag.