Cat Merrill

Cat Merrill possesses extensive experience in the field of optical science and management, currently serving as the Director of Space Telescope Programs at the University of Arizona since January 2025. Previously, Cat held the position of Chief Financial Officer and Owner at RUDA-CARDINAL, INC. from June 2020 to January 2025, and also acted as the Director of Program during that time. Prior roles include CSDC Program Manager at the National Optical Astronomy Observatory from June 2018 to June 2020, and Project Manager at the University of Arizona from January 2012 to June 2020. Cat earned a Master of Science in Optical Science with a focus on Remote Sensing and Vicarious Calibration from the University of Arizona and a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Northern Arizona University.