Michael Claeys is a full professor at the Catalysis Institute at the University of Cape Town, specializing in Fischer–Tropsch synthesis, nanomaterials, advanced catalysts, and operando characterisation. Since joining the University of Cape Town, he has developed a research programme that strongly integrates fundamental academic research with industrial application, particularly through a longstanding collaboration with Sasol R&D.

His work focuses on translating scientific advances into technologies for sustainable fuels and chemicals, with growing emphasis on Power-to-X and Power-to-Liquids pathways. He previously served as Director of the South African DSTI–NRF Centre of Excellence in Catalysis and managed its Scientific Synthesis Gas Programme, including research on CO₂ valorisation. He is currently involved in major international and South African PtL initiatives.

Professor Claeys has published extensively, holds numerous patents, and has received an A-rating for his research by the South African National Research Foundation. He is also co-founder and director of three spin-off companies, helping commercialise innovative catalytic technologies and specialised laboratory equipment.