Dr Sullivan is a Research Fellow at the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS). Patrick is a well recognised and valued researcher in the area of governance, Indigenous affairs policy and Indigenous/government relations. Patrick participates in a number of research projects involving CRC Aboriginal Health, CRC Desert Knowledge and CAEPR/ANU Governance research. He has been sought for these positions for his expertise in understanding community governance structures and his long publication record in this area.

Patrick has worked collaboratively with NCIS on a number of research projects and is currently working with NCIS on a project commissioned by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission to create a representative Indigenous voice at the national level.