As a specialist in maritime security and governance, Michael has extensive experience researching non-traditional threat vectors, including illicit trade, coastal insurgencies, and maritime grey-zone tactics. His work employs a mixed-methods approach to analysis to generate innovative solutions to maritime security challenges. By working closely with local stakeholders, he aims to have a positive impact on coastal communities worldwide.

For over a decade, Michael has researched and consulted on maritime security and governance for academic institutions, think tanks, and government agencies across Europe and North America. In addition to pursuing a PhD in Law and Security at Tilburg University, he also holds an MLitt from the University of Glasgow and a BA from Emory University. His work has consistently taken him across the Transatlantic and Eurasian regions, where his multicultural and multilingual background have proven an asset.