John P Conley

John P. Conley is a Professor of Economics at Vanderbilt University and previously held a position at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. He specializes in cryptoeconomics, blockchain technology, and the economics of information and communications technology (ICT). His research bridges theoretical economics with applied work in decentralized systems, including contributions to consensus mechanisms, token economics, and blockchain-based identity solutions. Conley is co-founder and first president of the Association for Public Economic Theory (APET) and co-founder/editor of the Journal of Public Economic Theory (JPET). He currently serves as editor of the Economics Bulletin and Chief Economist for the Geeq Project, an infrastructure blockchain startup. His work spans public economic theory, game theory, and the economic implications of emerging technologies like AI and IoT.

• Education: PhD in Economics from the University of Rochester; BA from the University of Chicago.
• Key Roles: Professor (Vanderbilt), Chief Economist (Geeq Project), Editor (Economics Bulletin), Former Microsoft Research Fellow.

Research interests emphasize cryptoeconomics, blockchain applications, and the intersection of technology with economic systems. His recent work addresses trustless AI markets, decentralized validation mechanisms (Proof of Honesty), and NFTs without smart contracts. Earlier contributions include studies on spectrum auctions, Tiebout economies, and fiscal policy dynamics. Conley’s interdisciplinary approach integrates theoretical rigor with practical blockchain infrastructure design.

Geeq Project collaborations focus on secure, scalable blockchain solutions. His academic leadership includes co-founding APET and JPET, fostering open-access publishing through the Economics Bulletin. Grants and advisory roles reflect his commitment to advancing decentralized technologies’ societal impact.