Dr. R. Max Holmes is motivated by a vision of science that connects people with each other and the natural world, and which drives urgently needed solutions to the climate crisis. He joined Woodwell Climate Research Center as a scientist in 2005, and served as Deputy Director for five years prior to becoming President and CEO in 2021.  

His globe-spanning career, track record of community-based science, and innate passion for interacting with new people and ideas position Max to engage diverse audiences with his inspiring, action-oriented vision for our climate future. He previously served as director of the U.S. National Science Foundation’s Arctic Systems Science Program, was elected National Fellow of the Explorers Club in 2015, and served on the 2022 Earthshot Prize committee.