Biography

Ata takes a problem-driven approach to bridge the theory and the practice of operations management, and has used stochastic models to study stochastic networks, manufacturing and service operations, revenue management, delivery of health care services and operational innovation in the social sector. His research focuses on dynamic decision making in complex settings under uncertainty. On the theory side, Ata’s current research interests include solving high-dimensional stochastic control and learning problems. On the application side, Ata currently works on identifying the right candidates for xenotransplantation, operational improvements in the criminal justice system and alleviating the logistical challenges in the last-mile delivery problems in Africa.

Ata’s research has been recognized by the Best Paper in Service Science Award, INFORMS (2009), William Pierskalla Best Paper Award, INFORMS (2015) and Wickham Skinner Best Paper Award, POMS (2019). He is also a recipient of the Manufacturing and Service Operations Management Young Scholar Prize, INFORMS (2015) and Emory Williams MBA Teaching Award at Chicago Booth (2021).

Ata serves as the editor for the Stochastic Models and Simulation Department of Management Science and the deputy editor for Stochastic Systems. He has also served as an associate editor for Mathematics of Operations Research, Operations Research, Management Science, Manufacturing & Service Operations Management, and Stochastic Systems.

Academic Areas

  • Operations Management

Working Papers

2024 - 2025 Course Schedule

Number Course Title Quarter
40801 Operations Management 2025 (Winter)