Dr. Yuqian Xu, a distinguished faculty member at UNC Kenan-Flagler, combines expertise in operations management, data analytics, and digital platforms to address complex business challenges. With a foundation in mathematics and a passion for applying analytical rigor to real-world problems, Dr. Xu brings a unique perspective to her teaching and research. In this interview, she shares insights into her academic journey, innovative projects, and dedication to empowering students to thrive at the intersection of technology and business.
Can you share a bit about your journey into academia and what inspired you to specialize in operations management and data analytics?
I pursued my undergraduate studies in mathematics, driven by a deep appreciation for analytical problem-solving. However, my interest in business, influenced by my family, always remained a significant part of my aspirations. The intersection of these two interests—applying mathematical rigor to address real-world business challenges—naturally led me to specialize in operations management and data analytics. This field allows me to leverage quantitative methods to optimize business processes, make data-driven decisions, and contribute to solving complex operational challenges in the real world.
How has your upbringing and education in China influenced your approach to teaching and research in the U.S.?
My upbringing and education in China have significantly shaped my approach to teaching and research in the U.S. The rigorous academic training I received in China instilled in me a strong foundation in quantitative analysis and problem-solving, which I integrate into my research and teaching methodologies. At the same time, growing up in a culture that emphasizes discipline and a deep respect for education has influenced my commitment to fostering a structured and goal-oriented learning environment for my students. Additionally, my experience navigating different educational systems has given me a global perspective, allowing me to bridge diverse viewpoints and encourage cross-cultural understanding in both research collaborations and classroom discussions. This background enables me to bring a unique blend of analytical rigor and practical relevance to my work in operations management and data analytics.
Your work bridges operations, financial services, and digital platforms—what excites you most about these intersections?
What excites me most about the intersection of operations, financial services, and digital platforms is the opportunity to understand and address the human behavioral and technology aspects within these business operations. As financial services become increasingly digitized with the rapid advancement of technology, the interactions between businesses and consumers are evolving in complex and interconnected ways. Exploring how individuals and organizations respond to these changes—whether in decision-making, risk management, or service adoption—offers valuable insights for designing more effective operational strategies. The dynamic nature of this space, where technology and human behavior intersect, presents a lot of possibilities for impactful research and innovative solutions.
Can you talk about a project you’re particularly proud of, such as your work with voice chatbots or collaborations with companies like Alibaba and JD.com?
One project I am particularly proud of is my work on voice chatbot design, which has already been successfully implemented by one truck-sharing platform. This project aimed to enhance the efficiency and user experience of automated customer service by leveraging business behavioral insights to improve chatbot interactions. Through collaboration with industry partners, we developed humanization strategies to improve operational efficiency. Seeing the practical impact of this research, where our findings have been directly applied to enhance real-world customer engagement, has been incredibly rewarding. It highlights the value of bridging academic research with industry applications to drive meaningful business improvements.
What insights can parents take from your research in digital platforms to prepare their children for a technology-driven world?
Parents can take several key insights from my research on digital platforms to help prepare their children for a technology-driven world. One important takeaway is the need to cultivate digital literacy and critical thinking skills from an early age. As digital platforms increasingly shape how we interact, learn, and make decisions, it is crucial for children to understand not just how to use technology, but also how to navigate it responsibly and effectively. My research also highlights the importance of balancing technology use with human-centric skills such as problem-solving, creativity, and emotional intelligence, which remain essential despite automation and AI advancements. Additionally, parents should encourage adaptability and a lifelong learning mindset, as technology continues to evolve rapidly, shaping future career opportunities and social interactions in ways that are yet to be fully realized.
What’s your teaching philosophy, and how do you approach making complex topics like risk analysis and machine learning accessible to your students?
My teaching philosophy is centered on making complex concepts approachable and applicable by fostering an engaging and practical learning environment. I believe that students learn best when they can connect theoretical knowledge to real-world applications, so I emphasize hands-on learning through case studies, interactive exercises, and industry-relevant examples. When teaching topics like risk analysis and machine learning, I break down complex ideas into fundamental building blocks, using intuitive explanations and visualizations to enhance understanding. I also encourage active learning by promoting discussions, problem-solving sessions, and projects that allow students to apply their knowledge in meaningful ways. My goal is to empower students with not only technical skills but also the critical thinking abilities needed to navigate uncertainty and make data-driven decisions in their careers.
What do you find most rewarding about working with students at UNC Kenan-Flagler?
What I find most rewarding about working with students at UNC Kenan-Flagler is their enthusiasm, curiosity, and drive to apply what they learn to real-world challenges. The students bring diverse perspectives and a strong commitment to excellence, which fosters an engaging and dynamic classroom environment. It is particularly fulfilling to see them develop confidence in tackling complex problems, whether in operations, data analytics, or strategic decision-making. I also enjoy mentoring students as they explore their career paths, helping them bridge the gap between theory and practice. Witnessing their growth and success—both academically and professionally—makes my work incredibly meaningful and reinforces my passion for teaching and research.
What advice would you give to students and young professionals aspiring to work at the intersection of technology and business?
My advice to students and young professionals aspiring to work at the intersection of technology and business is to cultivate a strong foundation in both technical and business skills while staying adaptable in this rapidly evolving landscape. Developing proficiency in data analytics, machine learning, and emerging technologies is crucial, but equally important is understanding how these tools can drive strategic decision-making and create business value. I encourage aspiring professionals to adopt a problem-solving mindset, always seeking to bridge the gap between technical solutions and real-world business challenges. Additionally, continuous learning and staying informed about industry trends are essential for staying competitive. Finally, building strong communication and collaboration skills will enable them to effectively work across interdisciplinary teams and drive meaningful impact in their careers.
Are there any new areas of research or teaching you’re excited to explore in the future?
Fintech, mobile payment, digital wallet, cryptocurrencies, and blockchain are exciting ones that I look forward to exploring more
What legacy do you hope to leave through your work and mentorship at UNC Kenan-Flagler?
I hope to leave a legacy of impactful research and mentorship that empowers students to think critically, embrace data-driven decision-making, and confidently navigate the intersection of technology and business. Through my work, I aim to contribute valuable insights that help organizations optimize their operations while addressing the human and behavioral aspects of business challenges. In mentorship, my goal is to inspire students to pursue lifelong learning, develop a problem-solving mindset, and apply their knowledge to create meaningful impact in their careers and communities. Ultimately, I aspire to be remembered for fostering a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and innovation that equips students with the skills and confidence to thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape.
