Michael R. Marlo

Michael R. Marlo is an Associate Professor in the Department of English at the University of Missouri's College of Arts and Science. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan (2007). His research focuses on phonology, tone systems in African languages, and Bantu linguistics, with a specialization in the Luyia macrolanguage of Kenya and Uganda. He has led major projects including NSF-funded studies on Luyia tonal systems and collaborative documentation initiatives.

Key achievements include a U.S. Fulbright Scholar Award (2015–2016) for linguistic documentation in Kenya and a National Science Foundation grant (BCS-1355750) for collaborative research on Luyia structure and tone. He co-directs the ASH Scholars research team Collaborative Research in African Linguistics (CORAL), supporting undergraduate involvement in African linguistics.

Teaching emphasizes field methods, phonology, and syntax, with frequent collaborations with African language consultants. Notable publications include studies on Bantu object marking, tonal typology, and micro-comparative research in African languages.

• Education: Ph.D., University of Michigan, 2007
• Research Interests: Bantu languages, tonal systems, morpho-phonology, language endangerment, and fieldwork methodologies
• Grants: Over $400,000 in NSF and NEH funding for language documentation and collaborative research
• Teams: CORAL (Collaborative Research in African Linguistics)