Professor Dr. Ernesto Escobar

Biography

Ernesto Escobar is the Executive Director of the Master of Engineering in Game Design, Development & Innovation at Duke University. He manages the program's curricular development, overseeing student, faculty, and staff operations while ensuring budgetary compliance and program excellence. In addition to directing marketing and admissions, Ernesto teaches game design and development courses, mentoring students and connecting them with industry partners for real-world experiences. He is also the Founder and CEO of Fanaticus XR, a game software development studio focused on creating innovative asymmetric gaming experiences. Prior to founding Fanaticus XR, Ernesto worked in innovation ecosystems at VentureLab, where he collaborated with public and private sectors to foster innovation and economic development. He has held teaching positions in innovation and entrepreneurship at Georgia State University and has extensive experience collaborating with numerous organizations, including the U.S. Department of State and the United Nations. Ernesto earned his Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Science from Utah Valley University and his Juris Doctor from Emory University, where he specialized in intellectual property law and technology commercialization.

Research Interests

Courses