Her research focuses on the development of science-based solutions to conservation and management issues in the ocean, with expertise is in the application of spatial tools, such as satellite tracking and oceanographic modeling. Dr. Maxwell uses these tools to understanding the distribution of large marine predators, how these predators interact with ocean processes and how this knowledge can be applied to managing predator populations, human activities and ocean resources. Her focus is on dynamic ocean management, marine protected areas, managing bycatch in marine fisheries and the sustainability of clean energy, particularly wind energy.