Dr. Michael Byers

Biography

Michael Byers is a Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of British Columbia, where he focuses his research on Outer Space, Arctic sovereignty, climate change, the law of the sea, laws of war, and Canadian foreign and defense policy. He serves as the co-director of the Outer Space Institute, a global network of space experts dedicated to innovative, transdisciplinary research that addresses the significant challenges of space exploration and use. Byers has held influential academic positions, including a fellowship at Jesus College, Oxford University, and as a professor of law at Duke University. He has also been a visiting professor at various prestigious institutions across several countries. Additionally, Byers is a Senior Global Fellow at the University of St Andrews and a part of the Kolleg-Forschungsgruppe at the Freie Universität Berlin. His recent publications include 'Who Owns Outer Space? International Law, Astrophysics, Sustainable Development in Space', and 'International Law and the Arctic', both of which highlight his expertise and contributions to international legal discourse. He is a regular contributor to the Globe and Mail newspaper and has received the Donner Prize for his public policy work.

Research Interests