Professor Michael Safier was a key figure of the Development Planning Unit. He dedicated his life, research and teaching activities, and professional practice to urban planning development specifically around the conceptualisation of cosmopolitan planning. He was appointed Lecturer at the Architectural Association, London, Department of Development and Tropical Studies, which transferred to University College London, where Michael continued teaching until retirement in 2006. While teaching, Professor Safier worked as consultant to various missions and Overseas Development Administration projects. Professor Safier also sits on the International Academic Board of Advisors for ISGAP, the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy.