Baback Vaziri

Dr. Baback Vaziri is an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Information Systems and Business Analytics at James Madison University's College of Business, also contributing to the MBA Program. His academic journey includes a BSE in Industrial and Operations Engineering from the University of Michigan (2006) and a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering from Purdue University (2016). He has held roles as Assistant Professor (2016–2022) and currently serves as Associate Professor since 2022. His research focuses on decision sciences, operations research, business analytics, and business education, with notable work in sports ranking methodologies and student motivation strategies.

Dr. Vaziri’s teaching innovations include integrating NoSQL databases into business curricula and addressing ethics in engineering education during crises. His awards include the 2024 College of Business Distinguished Teacher Award, 2023 Kenneth R. Bartee Award for Teaching Innovation, and 2023 College of Business Teaching and Learning Publication Award. His research bridges theoretical models (e.g., Markov-based ranking systems) with practical applications in sports analytics and educational pedagogy.

Publications highlight advancements in ranking algorithms, pandemic-era ethics education, and Bayesian approaches to student motivation. His work emphasizes collaborative methodologies like Crowd-Ranking and the MUSIC model for curriculum design. While no labs or teams are explicitly mentioned in the profile, his interdisciplinary research aligns with the College of Business’s focus on analytical and operational excellence.