Dr. Usman Sheikh

Instructor

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Biography

Usman Sheikh is a leading expert in the intersection of law and emerging technologies, particularly in Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and FinTech. He serves as a Partner at Baker McKenzie in Toronto and has been recognized as one of the top legal professionals in Canada, being named in the 'Top 25 Influential Lawyers' list by Canadian Lawyer in 2018 and ranked Band 1 in FinTech by Chambers for five consecutive years from 2020 to 2024. Usman is a distinguished thought leader and frequently engages with global governmental and regulatory bodies, providing strategic insights on legal and regulatory developments in emerging technologies. He has authored various academic publications and is set to publish 'Law Blockchain Technology' with Thomson Carswell in 2025. In his role as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Law, he teaches a course titled 'Blockchain, Digital Assets, Law'. Usman has addressed notable institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Bank for International Settlements (BIS), showcasing his expertise in AI governance frameworks, decentralized finance, and other cutting-edge topics in law and technology.

Research Interests

Experience

Adjunct Professor

— Present

University of Toronto • Toronto, ON

Teaching a course entitled 'Blockchain, Digital Assets, Law.'

Partner

— Present

Baker McKenzie • Toronto, ON

Leading the firm's blockchain team and co-leading the AI team in North America, involved in legal and regulatory practices concerning emerging technologies.

Requirements for University of Toronto

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:22
Speaking
Required:22
Total
Required:93
Prerequisites
Appropriate four-year bachelor's degree Background in sociological theory and statistics preferred
Application Checklist
  • Transcripts
  • Two letters of reference
  • Statement of intent
  • Writing sample
  • Curriculum Vitae
Specialization Notes

Department of Sociology