Tao Lu

Academic Director, Graduate Programs in Supply Chain Management
Associate Professor, Operations & Information Management

Tao Lu specializes in supply chain management, transport logistics, gig economy platforms, and socially responsible operations. His research addresses complex supply chain challenges, including inventory management, logistics coordination, and demand forecasting. His work has been published in leading journals such as Management Science, Manufacturing & Service Operations Management, Production and Operations Management, and Transportation Science. He teaches Supply Chain Analytics, Operations Management, and Quantitative Decision-Making, strengthening students with the skills to optimize and enhance global supply chains.

“I am passionate about bridging analytics with practical supply chain challenges and engaging with students from diverse business backgrounds. The MS program in Supply Chain Management equips students with essential domain knowledge and analytical skills, empowering them to make data-driven decisions and drive the future of global supply chains.”

Maio Bai

Assistant Professor, Operations & Information Management

Miao Bai specializes in healthcare operations, public health policy, and research-backed approaches to operations management. His research has been recognized by multiple awards from leading professional societies including INFORMS, DSI, and POMS. At UConn, he teaches courses in operations management and supply chain logistics. He holds a Ph.D. in Industrial and Systems Engineering from Lehigh University and a B.Eng. with first class honors from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Prior to joining UConn, he worked as a Research Associate at the Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

“Nothing is more fulfilling than watching students unlock the power of operations concepts to solve real-world challenges in healthcare, supply chains, and beyond. My goal is to equip them with an analytical toolkit to think boldly, act strategically, and pursue meaningful changes in their fields.”

Sudip Bhattacharjee

Professor, Operations and Information Management
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. He teaches courses in predictive analytics, data mining, high-performance data management (Big Data), and process modeling, incorporating live data projects with industry partners.

"In my classes, I blend advanced research with industry experience in data analytics, machine learning, and big data to equip students with AI-driven insights that power innovation in logistics and operations, enhancing their workforce readiness in a rapidly evolving job market."

Craig Calvert

Assistant Professor-in-Residence, Operations & Information Management

Craig Calvert developed the curriculum for UConn's Graduate Programs in Supply Chain Management, collaborating with industry professionals to provide students with skills in logistics, risk management, and data-guided strategies. His teaching emphasizes practical problem-solving and real-world scenarios, preparing students for success in complex SCM implementations. He co-directs UConn’s Management and Engineering for Manufacturing (MEM) program. Previously, he worked at Electric Boat, contributing to the design of the VIRGINIA Class Submarine's VIRGINIA Payload Module, managing government contracts, and overseeing engineering activities.

“The ultimate goal is for students to leave the classroom able to apply the ideas and concepts. Knowledge is power, but what is more powerful is the ability to apply knowledge and use it to develop actionable plans.” 

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. He 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 complex data into valuable insights but also gaining confidence in their problem-solving abilities. It’s inspiring to see them develop a strategic mindset that empowers them to make a significant impact on business outcomes."

Robert Day

Professor, Operations & Information Management

Robert Day is the Cizik Professor of Manufacturing and Technology Management, where he focuses on the optimization of business systems that impact our world. His research advances supply chain management by integrating data analytics, optimization, and market-mechanism-based solutions, addressing areas like healthcare scheduling and carbon emissions reduction. A recognized innovator in teaching operations and project management, he has received numerous awards for his outstanding research and teaching, including the INFORMS Computing Society Prize, the Dantzig Dissertation Award, and the School of Business Innovation in Teaching Award, as well as having served as the founding president of the INFORMS section on Auctions and Market Design.

“We use cutting-edge mathematics to make the world a better place. Studying supply chain management gives us the opportunity to overcome narrow self-interest toward system-wide efficiency gains, like removing trucks from the road through better planning and partnerships.”

Fasheng Xu

Assistant Professor, Operations and Information Management

Fasheng Xu’s research explores supply chain finance, digital platforms, generative AI, blockchain, and data privacy. His work, published in top-tier journals, has earned multiple best paper nominations and prestigious research awards, including the 2022 Guttag Junior Faculty Award and the 2025 Chelliah Sriskandarajah Early Career Research Accomplishments Award. He holds a Ph.D. in Operations Management from Olin Business School, Washington University. At UConn, he teaches courses in operations management and supply chain finance, examining financial tools and risk management strategies to enhance supply chain performance.

“I love supply chain management because it blends analytical rigor with hands-on problem-solving. Teaching graduate students in this field is incredibly rewarding as I get to challenge them to think critically about both financial tools and operational strategies that drive business performance. I’m particularly excited about integrating topics like generative AI and blockchain into our courses, which not only keeps the curriculum dynamic but also prepares students to be innovative leaders in a rapidly evolving industry.”

Meghan Hanrahan

Executive Director of Specialized Master’s Programs

Kaitlyn Speaker

Director of Admissions & Strategic Engagement

Kathryn Taylor

Regional & National Recruitment Specialist