Michaela Sullivan-Paul is a Senior Research Officer in EIPA’s Digital Policy team, where she specialises in Artificial Intelligence. She holds a Dual Master’s Degree in Public Policy from Sciences Po, Paris, and the University of Tokyo, and has contributed to international discussions on AI and innovation through her work with organisations such as the OECD, UNESCO, and the Forum on Information and Democracy. Her expertise supports policymakers, regulators, and practitioners in addressing pressing challenges including digital and AI literacy, mis- and disinformation, democratic resilience, and the wider societal and environmental implications of digital transformation.
What is your current role and function at EIPA?
As a Senior Research Officer working in AI, my work focuses on advancing AI literacy in public administrations, strengthening institutional capacity for digital transformation. This includes working with public servants from EU institutions and Member State administrations, often representing a diverse audience comprised of legal, policy, IT and engineering expertise. I provide trainings, workshops and policy advice addressing the technical, ethical and regulatory aspects of AI deployment in EU public administrations.
My aim is to ensure that our work is both relevant and practical, addressing both the immediate and long-term challenges faced by EU public administrations.
What brought you to EIPA?
Before joining EIPA, I worked in the area of public sector innovation, always having a keen interest in the digital economy, the effects of technology on society and politics. My academic research explored the effects of digital technologies and how they can be used as an equaliser, rather than a reinforcer of existing inequalities. I am a very impact-oriented person and enjoy working in multidisciplinary environments where I can meet people working in any field, from any country.
I’ve always been motivated by impact, and EIPA offers an environment where I can help bridge the gap between high-level policy and everyday operations in public administrations.
What do you find most fulfilling or rewarding about your work at EIPA?
The most rewarding aspect of my work is the opportunity to support public officials across Europe as they navigate the complex and rapidly evolving AI landscape.
What I find most rewarding is the opportunity to shape the way public officials think about technology for the public good and provide some support as they navigate a very complex and uncertain AI landscape. In my experience, most working in the field of AI governance are genuinely passionate about protecting users and eliminating downstream harms caused by AI systems. It is a community that is both critical and innovative, where curiosity and creativity are abundant, even if the answers to our questions aren’t.
Could you tell us about your most proud achievement at EIPA?
One achievement I’m particularly proud of is designing and launching our two-day course on AI Risk Management in the EU. It brings together legal, ethical, and practical dimensions of the AI Act and adjacent policies. The course has been well-received by participants and has opened doors for further collaborations. It also reflects our ability to quickly respond to policy developments with meaningful, timely content.
For me, it demonstrates EIPA’s strength in delivering timely and meaningful content in response to fast-moving policy developments.
EIPA has been involved in various projects and collaborations. Can you highlight a specific project that you look back on with pride?
A standout project for me is the EU-funded Digital Ethics Officer for Public Administration (DEO4PA) initiative, which focuses on developing digital ethics skills for public administration. It’s been an example of how professionals from different backgrounds, cultures, and traditions can come together to create something that fills a needs gap across the EU, while also representing different approaches to promoting ethics and good practices in public administration.
