Professor Chris Maharaj holds a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) and a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Management respectively from The University of the West Indies (UWI). He earned his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) at Imperial College. Professor Maharaj is also Head of the Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering Department of The UWI.

As an engineering academic, Professor Maharaj has research experience in alternative use of waste materials, mechanical design optimisation, failure analysis, component life assessment, asset management, innovation management, flipped classroom methods, and student motivation. He has industrial experience in design verification, maintenance, inspection, and condition monitoring in the petrochemical, petroleum refining, and oil and gas production sectors. Additionally, he has executive experience in the aviation and airline catering industry.