Max Klapow

Psychology (2023 cohort)

My work focuses on scalable interventions to prevent mental health problems in resource-limited settings, particularly low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). My doctoral research focuses on designing and evaluating technologies such as chatbots and apps to deliver parent-led cognitive behavioural therapy. This includes understanding behavioural factors that drive uptake and engagement with digital mental health interventions (DMHIs).

Prior to the DPhil, I completed my MPhil in Social Intervention and Policy Evaluation from the University of Oxford as a Truman Scholar, working on developing chatbot technologies to promote family well-being. I was selected to present my MPhil findings as a delegate at the World Congress of Public HeaIth in Rome. I also served as the Editor-in-Chief of the Graduate Inequality Review and the President of the St. Hilda’s College Common Room.

I obtained my BA (Hons) in Psychology, Neuroscience, and Philosophy at Washington University in St. Louis, where I was a Danforth Scholarship to fund my studies. During my time at WashU, I worked in the Prison Education Project to design curricula to promote the psychological health of incarcerated people. I also conducted research in implicit bias and cognitive processing models of depression at the Diversity Sciences Lab (WashU) and the Ruscio Lab (UPenn). I was awarded a Stern Family Civic Scholarship during my time at WashU and was also honoured with the Helen Davis Humanitarian Award for public service.