Faculty & Staff | Graduate Programs in Business Analytics and Project Management

Cuihong Li

Robert Cizik Chair in Manufacturing & Technology Management; Department Head, OPIM; Professor, Operations and Information Management

Cuihong Li specializes in supply chain management and operations strategy. Her research studies procurement and sourcing, supplier and consumer behavior, and digital transformation in AI-driven supply chains. Published in top academic journals, Professor Li teaches courses in operations and supply chain management, as well as business decision modeling, leveraging her expertise to prepare students for complex business environments. Professor Li earned her Ph.D. in Management of Manufacturing and Automation from Carnegie Mellon University and holds M.S. and B.S. degrees in Automation and Systems Engineering from Tsinghua University.

“Analytics is a great toolbox. I am always fascinated by how these tools can be applied in operations and supply chain management to improve the efficiency of the essential functions of a business.”

Xinxin Li

Treibick Family Chair in Business; Academic Director, MSBAPM; Professor, Operations and Information Management

Xinxin Li's research focuses on the economics of information systems, examining how emerging technologies impact consumer welfare, firm pricing, and competitive strategies. Her interdisciplinary expertise spans information systems, marketing, economics, and sociology, utilizing both game-theoretic modeling and econometric analysis. Published in leading academic journals and serving as a Senior Editor for MIS Quarterly, Professor Li has received multiple awards for research excellence, including the UConn School of Business 5-Year Research Excellence Award and the Ackerman Scholar Award. Professor Li earned her Ph.D. from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and her B.E. from Tsinghua University.

“Discovering patterns is interesting, but uncovering the root causes behind them and transforming those insights into meaningful actions is where the true excitement lies. Guiding students through this journey of exploration and problem-solving is what I find most rewarding in my teaching.”

David Bergman

Interim Associate Dean, Faculty & Research; Associate Professor, Operations and Information Management

David Bergman is an expert in large-scale automated analysis, discrete optimization, and machine learning, with applications spanning business analytics, operations research, and sports analytics. His research and consulting work focuses on integrating optimization techniques to solve industry challenges, from military training scheduling to financial strategy. Professor Bergman teaches courses on business decision modeling, focusing on optimization, simulation, and data-driven analysis. Professor Bergman holds a Ph.D. in Algorithms, Combinatorics, and Optimization from Carnegie Mellon University and is a Certified Analytics Professional (CAP).

“I enjoy teaching analytics to our graduate students because it allows me to show them what’s possible with data-driven decision-making. Seeing their progression from uncertainty to mastery — and ultimately applying analytics to real-world challenges — is incredibly rewarding, and I value the opportunity to build lasting professional connections with my students.”

Sudip Bhattacharjee

Professor, Operations and Information Management and Senior Research Fellow, US Census Bureau

Sudip Bhattacharjee is an expert in data-driven IT and operations management, AI and machine learning, and policy. His research has been published in premier journals and featured in major media outlets. He is a startup advisor and leads research projects at the U.S. Census Bureau and Fortune 100 firms on data-driven decision making. His work integrates machine learning and alternative data sources to enhance efficiency and innovation in operations, supply chains, and other fields. An award-winning teacher, Professor Bhattacharjee leads courses in predictive analytics, data mining, high-performance data management (Big Data), and process modeling, incorporating live data projects with industry partners.

“I aim to impact students' careers by integrating and bringing cutting-edge research and personal experience in data analytics, machine learning, and big data decision-making into the classroom, equipping them with practical and industry-relevant skills. These soft and hard skills align with the growing demand for AI and data-informed decision-making in the U.S. industry, enhancing students' employability in sectors such as technology, finance, consulting, retail, health care and other areas.”

Carlos Cardonha

Assistant Professor, Operations and Information Management

Carlos Cardonha is an award-winning researcher with specialized interests in discrete optimization, mixed integer linear programming, combinatorial optimization, and algorithm design. His work spans data science, machine learning, and mathematical programming, with a strong emphasis on practical solutions in optimization. He holds a Ph.D. in Mathematics from the Technical University of Berlin and has earned multiple accolades for his technical achievements at IBM Research and for contributions to education, including UConn’s Innovation in Teaching Award.

“I teach modeling courses for the BAPM program, emphasizing an optimization perspective. It is incredibly rewarding to see the moment when the optimization mindset 'clicks' for students, enabling them to recognize how most business processes can be systematically modeled and solved through optimization."

Wei Chen

Associate Professor, Operations and Information Management

Wei Chen is an award-winning expert in platform economics, financial technologies (FinTech), and generative AI (GenAI). He also serves as the academic director of the UConn Digital Frontiers Initiative, co-leading industry-academia collaborations with a current emphasis on the business applications of generative AI. His research focuses on GenAI design and governance. A recipient of the Sandra A. Slaughter Early Career Award, Professor Chen has published in top-tier journals such as Management Science. He holds a Ph.D. in Innovation, Technology, and Operations from the University of California, San Diego.

“The most significant feature of the MSBAPM program is the innovativeness of the curriculum. We constantly update it to match the latest industry needs. One of the biggest shifts we are making is bringing Generative AI (we already had predictive AI) into the classroom. Students don’t just learn the theory; they work on AI-driven projects and collaborate with industry partners. Students gain practical experience that directly translates into career opportunities, including internships and full-time job offers.”

Jose Cruz

Associate Dean for Graduate Programs; Associate Professor, Operations and Information Management

Jose Cruz specializes in business analytics, project management, and operations research. His multidisciplinary research integrates management, engineering, computer systems, and applied mathematics to address complex decision-making in network systems. His work has been published in leading journals like European Journal of Operational Research and Decision Support Systems, and he has been recognized with multiple teaching and service awards, including the UConn-AAUP Excellence Award. Professor Cruz is an instructor of Managerial Statistics, Operations Management, Advanced Project Management, Data Mining, Predictive Modeling, and Project Risk and Cost Management.

“I enjoy seeing students not only turning intricate data into valuable insights but also gaining confidence in their problem-solving abilities. It’s inspiring to witness their growth in strategic thinking, which enables them to influence business results significantly."

Jennifer Eigo

Instructor in-Residence, Operations and Information Management

UConn Alum Jennifer Eigo brings extensive industry experience in business analytics, IT infrastructure, and data strategy to her teaching at the Hartford and Stamford campuses. With expertise in predictive modeling, project risk management, and experiential learning, she prepares students for careers in data analytics through hands-on coursework, helping students build the skills they need to thrive in analytical roles. As Associate Director of UConn’s Digital Frontiers Initiative, she fosters partnerships with companies to develop practical analytics projects for the MSBAPM Capstone course. Professor Eigo holds a B.S. in Management Information Systems and a M.S. in Business Analytics and Project Management, both from UConn. She teaches Predictive Modeling and the Capstone course.

“Teaching is my passion! I delight in watching students grow, from learning the fundamentals in their first semester to completing their final capstone project before graduation. It’s a privilege to contribute to that journey!”

Chen Liang

Dean’s Ackerman Scholar; Assistant Professor, Operations and Information Management

Chen Liang’s scholarly work focuses on the intersection of human-Artificial Intelligence (AI) interactions, the future of work, and financial technology. She examines how AI and platform policies influence labor markets, consumer behavior, and business operations, especially in the gig economy and across different digital platforms. Her research also explores the synergy between AI and human efforts, studying how technology can enhance decision-making processes in different sectors, including marketing and healthcare. Professor Liang earned her Ph.D. in Information Systems from Arizona State University, and her research has been published in various leading business journals and top computer science conferences, earning multiple awards including the ISS Gordon B. Davis Young Scholar Award, and the AIS Early Career Award.

"The best part of teaching is seeing students apply their learning to real business challenges. The BAPM program equips them with advanced tools, including generative AI, to navigate and lead in an evolving digital economy. "

Tao Lu

Associate Professor, Operations and Information Management

Tao Lu specializes in supply chain optimization, business analytics, and socially responsible and sustainable operations. His research explores challenges in supply chain and operations management, including predictive analytics, platform economics, and algorithmic decision-making. His work has been published in premier academic journals such as Management Science, Manufacturing & Service Operations Management, and Production and Operations Management. Professor Lu, who holds a Ph.D. in Operations Management from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, teaches courses that equip students with advanced analytical and quantitative decision-making skills, preparing them to solve real-world business challenges and drive data-informed strategies.

"I am passionate about engaging with students from diverse business backgrounds. I aim to provide a blend of predictive analytics skills and essential domain knowledge that empowers students to make evidence-based decisions and lead the future of operational excellence.”

Jing Peng

Associate Professor, Operations and Information Management

Jing Peng earned his Ph.D. in Operations, Information, and Decisions from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Professor Peng’s research examines the societal and economic impacts of technological innovations in digital platforms, with a particular focus on developing innovative econometric methods. His work has been published in leading journals such as Management Science and Information Systems Research, earning him the 2022 Gordon B. Davis Young Scholar Award for his significant contributions to the field. In his courses, students explore fundamental principles of generative AI and learn advanced techniques such as prompt engineering and retrieval-augmented generation.

"What I find most exciting about teaching analytics is witnessing students transform raw data into stories that drive decisions–cultivating future leaders to harness tools like Generative AI and Predictive Modeling not just to predict the future, but to shape it."

Anna Radziwillowicz

Instructor in-Residence, Operations and Information Management

UConn Alum Anna Radziwillowicz has extensive experience in IT project management, process improvement, and technology solutions. With a Master’s degree in Business Analytics and Project Management, she specializes in data analysis, project lifecycle development, and problem-solving. Professor Radziwillowicz is certified in Six Sigma Green Belt and teaches courses which cover topics like relational data management, process modeling, and SQL. Through real-world applications, students learn how data and process optimization generate better business outcomes.

“Drawing from real projects and business collaborations, I bring firsthand knowledge to my students. I also share insights and stories from industry colleagues and friends to make class discussions more engaging, valuable, and relevant. While theory is important, practical application is key–and I make sure my students get applied examples that help them connect what they learn to the real world.”

Ramesh Shankar

Associate Professor, Operations and Information Management

Ramesh Shankar is a recognized expert in Big Data analytics, social media analytics, and the strategic analysis of digital goods, like software, music, and video games. His research has been published in leading journals including Information Systems Research, MIS Quarterly, Production & Operations Management, and Marketing Science. In his courses, Professor Shankar connects students with industry leaders in data analytics and technology. He holds a Ph.D. from NYU Stern School of Business, and an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad.

“I find immense fulfillment in guiding students to harness the power of data and technology, helping them develop analytical thinking and problem-solving skills that will shape their careers and impact the world.”

Jaeung Sim

Assistant Professor, Operations and Information Management

Jaeung Sim specializes in business analytics with a special focus on causal inference and applied machine learning in the media and energy markets. Professor Sim brings extensive experience to his MSBAPM teaching, combining interdisciplinary research across marketing, information systems, economics, and computer science with partnerships with firms in banking, e-learning, online gaming, and fashion retail. He received his Ph.D. degree from KAIST College of Business, and his bachelor's degree from POSTECH (summa cum laude).

“My primary teaching expertise is data analytics, encompassing topics such as machine learning, econometrics, database management, and programming for data science. As an educator in a business school, I view my role as bridging the gap between technical skills and business acumen.”

Jan Stallaert

Professor, Operations and Information Management

Jan Stallaert's research explores the intersection of Economics, Information Systems, and Decision Theory, with expertise in eCommerce, Auctions, and Mathematical Programming. His research has advanced the development of Decision Support Systems and their organizational impact, with his work published in top journals such as Management Science, MIS Quarterly, IEEE Computer, and Information Systems Research. Professor Stallaert earned a Ph.D. in Management from the Anderson Graduate School of Management at UCLA.

“As we see industries increasingly rely on data to make informed decisions, the MSBAPM program stays ahead by emphasizing skills like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and predictive analytics. This focus on emerging technologies not only aligns with the latest trends in the field but also ensures that graduates are equipped to address the challenges of tomorrow’s workforce—whether that's through automation, big data, AI, or innovative business models. My personal approach stresses rigor and interpretation in my teaching: models and technology may suggest associations, but the ultimate arbiter is still the human mind. It is important to know and understand the limitations and assumptions of our models to synthesize their predictions into a coherent model representation of reality.”

Alex Tung

Associate Professor, Operations and Information Management

Alex Tung specializes in e-market innovations, applied Artificial Intelligence, and expert systems, with a particular interest in how management information systems (MIS) operate across interdisciplinary functional areas. His work has been published in leading journals, including Management Science, Communications of the ACM, Journal of Management Information Systems, and Decision Sciences. With a Ph.D. in Management Information Systems from the University of Kentucky, Professor Tung’s teaching interests span programming languages such as Swift, C++, C#, Visual Basic, Java, and React Native, as well as web development and electronic commerce.

“I find it incredibly rewarding to see students apply analytical techniques to real-world business challenges. Our program provides students with a unique blend of rigorous technical training and strategic thinking. It's inspiring to see them grow into professionals who not only understand data but can also make informed decisions that lead to business success.”

David Wanik

Associate Professor, Operations and Information Management

Alum David Wanik is an expert in data science, deep learning, geospatial data processing, optimization, and statistics, particularly as they apply to weather-impact modeling, infrastructure resilience, energy analytics, business analytics, and emergency preparedness. His work integrates remote sensing, IoT, and decision-support systems, with applications in insurance, utilities, and smart cities. With a Ph.D. degree in Environmental Engineering, Professor Wanik has secured research funding for his work and co-developed a patented storm outage model, now licensed to a leading weather analytics company. Professor Wanik teaches courses in data science, cloud computing, statistics, and deep learning, and has been recognized with the Excellence in Graduate Teaching Award (2024) and Innovation in Teaching Award (2022) from the UConn School of Business.

“My greatest passion is empowering students to harness AI to solve real-world problems and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving field. I am proud to train the next generation of creative, quantitative, business-savvy professionals who will land fulfilling jobs and continue growing as lifelong learners.”

John Wilson

Academic Director, MS in FinTech; Instructor In-Residence, Operations and Information Management

Alum John Wilson has been recognized for his excellence in teaching, receiving multiple awards, including the UConn School of Business Excellence in Graduate Teaching Award (2019), the AAUP Early Career Teaching Award (2020), and the Innovation in Teaching Award (2024). He was also named Outstanding OPIM-Analytics Faculty Member in UConn’s MBA program in 2017, 2018, and 2019 and is a member of the UConn School of Business Hall of Fame. With a master’s degree in business analytics and project management, Professor Wilson teaches a range of graduate business courses, including Visual Analytics, Advanced Project Management (Capstone), and Global Technology Management.

“MSBAPM is unique in that it is the only program in the United States that combines business analytics with project management. This is critical because for most organizations, the implementation of analytics initiatives is usually manifested in a project. Understanding both domains gives our students a distinct advantage in the marketplace.”

Karen Xie

Associate Professor, Operations and Information Management

Karen Xie’s expertise in algorithms, AI, and market design informs her teaching in business analytics and project management. Her work has been published in Management Science and garnered multiple awards and competitive funding from leading organizations including Meta, Zillow, and Wharton Customer Analytics. Professor Xie serves as an advisor for student consulting projects at UConn, collaborating with both local and international partners like PepsiCo, LEGO, and AutoShopIQ. These initiatives have helped place numerous students in roles as business analysts and project managers. Professor Xie holds a Ph.D. from Temple University Fox School of Business and a Master of Philosophy from Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

“As an instructor, my goal is to equip MSBAPM students with the skills and confidence to translate their expertise into real-world opportunities and confidently navigate the job market.”

Fasheng Xu

Assistant Professor, Operations and Information Management

Fasheng Xu’s research focuses on the Economics of Generative AI, Blockchain/Crypto, FinTech, Supply Chain Finance, Digital Platforms, and Data Privacy. Published in top-tier journals, he has received several best paper nominations along with prestigious research awards, including the 2025 Chelliah Sriskandarajah Early Career Research Accomplishments Award. He earned his Ph.D. in Operations Management from Olin Business School, Washington University. At UConn, he teaches OPIM 5110: Operations Management (both online and at the Stamford campus) and designed and launched OPIM 5115: Supply Chain Finance, a newly developed course offering an in-depth exploration of the intersection between supply chain management and financial strategies, with a focus on how financial tools and risk management techniques can optimize supply chain performance.

“We have built the UConn MSBAPM program to uniquely integrate analytics, technology, and business strategy, empowering students to transform complex data into meaningful insights, optimize decision-making through advanced modeling, and apply the latest methodologies to solve real-world industry challenges.”

Graduate Programs in Business Analytics and Project Management

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