Michael is a paleontologist and biomechanist who reconstructs the anatomy, physiology, and motion of extinct animals. Michael is most widely recognized for his work on giant pterosaurs (the largest flying animals in Earth’s history), feathered dinosaurs, and the origin of flight in birds. Michael runs ongoing field projects in New Mexico and Alberta focused on the discovery and excavation of Cretaceous vertebrate fossils. He has ongoing research projects related to the mechanics of pterosaurs, birds, titanosaurs, and mosasaurs. Michael is also a freelance illustrator who enjoys working at the interface of science and art. His work on the behavior and anatomy of extinct animals has improved modern reconstructions of past species and helped inspire creature creation efforts for television and film.