Michael Tjalve brings more than two decades of experience with AI, from applied science and research to tech sector AI product development as well as many years of close collaboration with the humanitarian sector, most recently serving as Chief AI Architect at Microsoft Philanthropies where he helped humanitarian organizations leverage AI to amplify their impact.

In 2024, he left the tech sector to found Humanitarian AI Advisory, dedicated to helping humanitarian organizations and stakeholders understand how to harness the potential of AI while navigating its pitfalls.

Since 2009, Michael has been Assistant Professor at University of Washington where he teaches AI in the humanitarian sector and ethical innovation. He holds a PhD in Artificial Intelligence from University College London.

Michael serves as Board Chair and technology advisor for Spreeha Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to improving healthcare and education and to empowering women and girls in underserved communities in Bangladesh.

Michael is AI Advisor to the UN on humanitarian affairs, where he works with OCHA on AI strategy and on providing guidance on the safe and effective use of AI for humanitarian action.