Meet Amirhosein Zahedi
Amir Zahedi is a PhD candidate specializing in marketing. Prior to joining Iowa State University, Zahedi received his bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from Ferdowsi University, in Iran, and his master’s degree in entrepreneurship from the University of Tehran, in Iran. Zahedi has four years of experience working in the tech industry in both B2B and B2C sectors. His research interests include the areas of innovation and marketing strategies, especially those related to digital marketing, analytics and artificial intelligence (AI).
Q: Why did you decide to get a PhD in marketing?
Having worked with various companies in multiple capacities, I have always been fascinated by the pivotal role marketing plays in determining a company’s success or failure. These experiences, combined with my passion for generating and disseminating new knowledge, inspired me to pursue a PhD in marketing.
Q: How did you choose the Ivy College of Business? Please share any specific points that helped you decide.
My choice of Ivy College of Business was influenced most significantly by two key factors. Firstly, the inclusive and diverse profile of the prior PhD students and faculty members signaled a welcoming culture, particularly appealing to international scholars like myself. Secondly, I found an alignment between faculty research interests with those of mine.
Q: What types of research are you most interested in?
My research interests lie in the areas of innovation and marketing strategies, especially those related to digital marketing, analytics, and AI. I have an additional interest in context-specific marketing strategies with a focus on sales domains and entrepreneurial ventures.
Q: Would you encourage future PhD students to apply at Ivy? Please explain why.
Absolutely! If I could go back four years, I would choose Ivy once again. I have had a great experience at Ivy due to the collegial environment and support I received throughout my time in the PhD program from everyone with whom I interacted, from the dean to the PhD program leadership, department chair, my advisor, and other fellow PhD students. The program’s commitment to supporting a learning environment and preparing candidates for academia is both evident and commendable.
Q: What is your dream job after you complete your PhD?
I would like to become a faculty member at a university with high research activities.
