Ali Emdad

Dr. Ali Emdad is a Professor and Executive Director of Research Centers at Morgan State University's Graves Business School. He holds leadership roles including Director of the National Fintech Center and Information Science & Systems. With a Ph.D. from Case Western Reserve University and executive training at Harvard/Yale/MIT, he bridges technology, business, and societal impact. His research focuses on blockchain, cryptoeconomics, IT strategy, and risk management. He pioneered academic programs like the B.S. in Supply Chain Management and the Ph.D. track in Information Systems, and established the Center for Blockchain & FinTech and the Center for Data Analytics & Sports Gaming Research. Dr. Emdad has secured $7.5M+ in external funding since 2019, emphasizing industry-academia collaboration.

Education and Background: Earned Ph.D. in Information Systems from Case Western Reserve University. Completed executive leadership programs at Harvard, Yale, and MIT. Prior industry experience at Kennecott Corporation.

Research & Innovation: Focuses on blockchain's last-mile challenges, trust verification in cryptoeconomics, and data-driven solutions for societal issues. Developed the Capital Markets Lab (since 2015) and the Student Managed Investment Fund (2024).

Awards & Recognition: Recipient of Morgan State's highest faculty honor, the Iva G. Jones Medallion, and a 2007 Fulbright Fellow. His work emphasizes inclusivity and innovation, shaping academic excellence through AACSB accreditation standards.

Grants & Partnerships: Secured over $7.5 million in funding from corporations and government agencies since 2019, fostering partnerships for applied research and community impact.

Labs & Initiatives: Leads the National Fintech Center, Capital Markets Lab, and Student Managed Investment Fund. Co-founded the Center for Data Analytics & Sports Gaming Research.