Maxim is trained in biochemistry, microbiology, chemistry, and materials science. Before joining 5 Lakes Energy, he was an AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellow at the US Department of Energy in the Bioenergy Technologies Office, where he focused on the advancement of technologies for the conversion of biomass and other renewable carbon to fuels and chemicals. Prior to the fellowship, he was a research faculty member at the University of Washington in Seattle, where he studied microbial communication in a bacterial pathogen of high concern. Maxim’s earlier research was focused on different aspects of biomass utilization for fuels and chemicals and novel materials for automotive fuel cell anodes. Maxim has a PhD in biochemistry and MS in chemistry and chemical biology from Cornell University, and he earned a BS in chemistry and biology from Indiana University, Bloomington.

As a senior consultant at 5 Lakes Energy, Maxim works across the team’s clean industry portfolio, which includes hydrogen, heavy industry, industrial heat, and electrification technologies. His projects engage state agencies, corporations, nonprofits, and communities throughout the Great Lakes Region. In managing his client-driven portfolio, Maxim routinely applies his research, analysis, and communication skills to develop socially conscious approaches to industrial decarbonization. He strongly believes that the most impactful and lasting change toward a decarbonized future will come from regular multilateral engagement and coordinated efforts by all impacted stakeholders, including industry, government, and communities. Maxim incorporates evidence-based and data-driven decision making in all his work.

Maxim currently lives in Washington, DC, with his wife and two kids. They plan to relocate to Michigan in the near future to be closer to their families. Maxim enjoys playing soccer, running, biking, cross country skiing, and just being outdoors.