Michalis is a Research Scientist and the Director of Computing at MIT's Media Lab where he has been working since 1996. He was one of the founding members of the "One Laptop Per Child" initiative where he made significant contributions to the design and implementation of OLPC's pioneering "XO" laptop as well as its Internet connectivity. He co-founded Velti S.A., a very successful mobile advertising and marketing company and has consulted for many companies in many different capacities.

Over the years, he has implemented broadband access networks using cutting-edge technologies including one of the earliest ADSL testbeds and various wireless technologies. Michalis serves as a independent non executive member of OTE S.A. Board of Directors. He has been a frequent keynote speaker in international conferences and has been engaged in many civic activities. He holds an undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and an MSc degree in Computer Engineering from Boston University.