Michael is chief scientist for the Contemporary Indigenous Knowledge and Governance research group in the Northern Institute. He has a background in linguistics, and in teaching, translating and interpreting Yolŋu (Northeast Arnhem Land Aboriginal) languages. He has written extensively about Yolŋu knowledge and education, and conducted research into fields such as digital technologies and the management of traditional knowledge, health communication, and Aboriginal philosophies of knowledge and education. In recent years he has led a team working with governments (and NGOs) and Aboriginal elders and researchers and their organisations, to clarify and evaluate services to Aboriginal communities, including health, housing, volunteering, and resource management.