Professional Background
Maria Vaz

Dr. Maria Vaz received her undergraduate degree in physics in 1976 from the University of Lisbon, Portugal.  In 1978 she received her masters degree and in 1981 she received her Ph.D. in Physics from Kent State University.

Dr. Vaz started her career at Lawrence Technological University in 1983 as an Assistant Professor of Physics.  In 1988 she was promoted to Associate Professor of Physics and in 1993 she was promoted to Professor of Physics.

During her career at Lawrence Tech, Dr. Vaz has been the Department Chair of the Natural Sciences Department (Physics and Chemistry) (1992-1994), the Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (1994-1998) and Associate Provost and Dean of Graduate Programs (1998-present).

As an Associate Provost, Dr. Vaz is responsible for the Assessment Program of the University.  She is also responsible for the quality and consistency of the graduate programs offered by the University.  She works closely with the provost, deans of the colleges and vice-presidents to accomplish the goals of the University.

Dr. Vaz is interested in science education and she received several grants from the Michigan Department of Education, the U.S. Department of Education and several private foundations to improve science education in the schools.  In partnership with the Detroit Zoo and the Cranbrook Institute of Science, Lawrence Tech developed, under her direction, a unique and innovative Master of Science Education for middle school teachers.

Dr. Vaz is a native of Portugal.  She has been living in the United States for the last 25 years.  She is married and has three children.