Michael Christie

Professional background in a Tweet

I have a background in science, business and law. I have a Bachelor of Biotechnology and a PhD in Biochemistry, and previously worked as a molecular biologist in Germany. I later received a Master of Intellectual Property and now work as a patent attorney.

What fuels my passion for public education

I know so many talented, hard-working public education graduates. Many have faced adversities and overcome challenges not encountered by those from more affluent backgrounds. The unique challenges faced by public school kids adds an extra dimension to their education, teaching them independence, work ethic and resilience.

I have also seen how the private education system creates and entrenches networks of privilege. I have worked with privately educated business executives whose friends, colleagues or relatives hold positions of power.

But the most impressive and inspirational people with whom I have worked are former public school kids. They might not have received the same opportunities as others, but they have achieved great things, nonetheless.

I have spent more than 10 years at university. I have worked as a research scientist at the Max Planck Institute in Germany and as a senior patent attorney in a global corporate law firm. And I would not be where I am today were it not for the public education system. I am a proud graduate of Patrick’s Road State School and Ferny Grove State High School.  I am grateful to the teachers who taught me how to apply my knowledge and pursue my passions. I am grateful to my public school friends who kept me grounded and who remain my closest friends today.

I am a mentor at the Public Education Foundation, but I am also a mentee. The students that I work with never cease to impress me with their work ethic, their intellect and their humility. I want to ensure these students are given opportunities to pursue their passions and that they seize those opportunities when they arise.