During Michael McFaul’s distinguished career in the political and academic arenas, he has earned a reputation as one of the most renowned experts on foreign affairs. Prior to his ambassadorship, McFaul served as the Special Assistant to President Obama, and Senior Director for Russian and Eurasian Affairs at the National Security Council. McFaul is a professor of Political Science at his alma mater, Stanford University. A Rhodes Scholar, he completed his PhD in International Relations in 1991. McFaul also has authored numerous books and works as an analyst for NBC News.