Claire E. Max

Claire E. Max serves as Professor of Astronomy and Astrophysics at the University of California, Santa Cruz and Director of the University of California Observatories. Her work integrates astronomical research, instrumentation development, and education leadership across multiple observatory facilities.

Her academic credentials include:

• A.B. in Astronomy, Harvard University
• Ph.D. in Astrophysical Sciences - Plasma Physics, Princeton University

Max's research centers on three interconnected domains: (1) Astronomical applications of adaptive optics systems at Lick and Keck Observatories, focusing on merging galaxies, ultra-luminous infrared galaxies, and dual active galactic nuclei; (2) Multi-wavelength consortium studies of the Crab Nebula during intense gamma-ray flares detected by the FERMI LAT instrument; and (3) Development of advanced adaptive optics systems for ground-based telescopes through collaborations with UCSC, W. M. Keck Observatory, Caltech, and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Her instrumentation work includes laser guide star systems deployed at major observatories.

She actively mentors graduate students in adaptive optics applications and astronomical instrumentation while maintaining significant education outreach commitments. Max co-founded the Akamai Short Course and Internship program in Hawaii to increase participation of Hawaiian community college students in STEM fields, established the Institute for Scientist and Engineer Educators at UC Santa Cruz to train graduate students in modern pedagogy for underrepresented groups, and sponsors the Lick Observatory Teacher Institute for high school educators. She also collaborates with UC Berkeley's Space Sciences Laboratory on the Multiverse education program and regularly participates in public astronomy outreach events.