Michelle’s early research experience was in biological anthropology, focusing on the behaviour and social systems of primates. When she returned to research in 2004 following a period of ill health, she worked in the areas of consumer-focused research and the use of technology for the self-management of mental health problems. Her PhD explored mental health consumers’ priorities for research on depression and bipolar disorder in Australia. Michelle's research interests include effective services and policy for mental illness. She is Co-Director and Lived Experience Lead for the ALIVE National Centre for Mental Health Research Translation, and heads the Lived Experience Research Unit at the Centre for Mental Health Research, incorporating ACACIA: The ACT Consumer & Carer Mental Health Research Unit. In these roles, she aims to increase the involvement of mental health consumers and carers in the research process and conduct research relevant to their needs.