Dr. Feng Zhu

Professor

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Biography

Professor Zhu’s research focuses on design platform business models and their impact on platform performance. He examines how platforms function as central components of the economy, enabling customer groups to interact through products or services. For instance, marketplace platforms such as eBay connect buyers and sellers, while content-sharing platforms like YouTube and Wikipedia connect content creators with consumers. Zhu identifies significant variations in the performance of platform firms; some, such as Google and Apple, build large user bases and achieve high profit margins, while others, like Uber, struggle with sustainability. His research includes how platform business models are shaped by network properties and how firms manage network participants to optimize performance. In addition, he explores the interaction between platform designs and competitive strategies in various markets, highlighting the importance of business model innovation. With formal academic training and practical accomplishments, Professor Zhu has been involved in significant teaching and research activities at Harvard Business School, shaping the understanding and implementation of digital innovation and management practices.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

1958-01-01 — Present

Harvard Business School • Boston, MA

Professor of Business Administration, leads Platform Lab within Digital, Data, Design Institute, co-chairs Harvard Business Analytics Program, serves as course head for Technology Operations Management.

Awards

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Inaugural Management Science Associate Editor Award

2021-01-01
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Haim Mendelson Teaching Innovation Award

2021-01-01
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Practical Impacts Award

2020-01-01
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PhD Paper Award

2017-01-01

Requirements for Harvard Business School

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
GMAT
GRE General
TOEFL
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or equivalent Strong quantitative and analytical background
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Resume/CV
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Writing Sample (Optional/Recommended)
Specialization Notes

The PhD in Business Administration is the primary doctoral degree encompassing various areas of study including Business Economics, Accounting, and Strategy.