Maxim Irishkin holds a PhD in Physics from Aix-Marseille University, France, and has over 15 years of professional experience in innovations, technologies, and business development. He is a member of the Board of Directors at Axion, a company specializing in metal extraction technologies, where he is responsible for strategy and growth. In his current role at Krastsvetmet and Axion – Rare and Noble Metals companies, Maxim is focused on developing sorbents and ion-exchange resins, particularly for use in direct lithium extraction technologies. His goal is to develop and industrially implement an efficient, low-cost lithium extraction technology. He is passionate about innovation, technology, and startups.