Koopman Joins Center for Growth and Opportunity

Tech policy scholar to lead strategy and research at The Center for Growth and Opportunity at Utah State University

LOGAN, Utah — Christopher Koopman, former Senior Research Fellow and Director of the Technology Policy Program at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University, has joined The Center for Growth and Opportunity at Utah State University as Senior Director of Strategy and Research.

Koopman, who taught economics and law courses at George Mason University, said he’s excited to help guide the strategy and research areas for the new center, which was founded in 2017.

“The Center for Growth and Opportunity thinks big. We’re planning — and already doing — bold academic research with the potential to dramatically improve people’s lives,” said Koopman. “It’s exhilarating work, especially when you start to see your ideas make a difference. The CGO has a clear vision for producing that kind of high-impact research — that’s why I’m so excited to join the team.”

Koopman’s research focuses primarily on regulation, competition, and innovation. These areas extend across a broad array of topics: emerging technology, healthcare, online gambling, antitrust, and others. His publications on the sharing economy have been recognized for their innovative responses to uncharted public policy questions.

“I’m passionate about researching technology policy, because it has such a dramatic effect on the quality of our lives. The decisions policymakers make today will have profound effects on large parts of our economy and society for generations to come,” said Koopman. “My hope is that we will produce research that can help inspire new and innovative ideas that will make society better.”

Recognized as one of Forbes’ 30 under 30 for Law and Policy in 2016, many of Koopman’s research and opinion commentary articles have been featured in the popular press — including The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Washington Post, USA Today, and others. Koopman said he hopes to continue to write about issues that impact people’s lives in a positive way.

There are many opportunities out there for us to make a difference,” he said. “So much is happening outside of Washington, D.C. In many ways, policymakers in cities and states are taking the lead in identifying the policies that the entire country needs most right now,” said Koopman.

Frank Caliendo, Academic Director at The Center for Growth and Opportunity, said Koopman’s experience and insight brings a new level of leadership to the growing center.

“Chris is a talented scholar, whose experience at a premier research organization is invaluable,” said Caliendo. “His leadership will allow our organization to climb to new heights, and we’re thrilled to have him onboard.”

Koopman earned his J.D. from Ave Maria University and his L.L.M.  in law and economics at George Mason University. Koopman, his wife, and two sons, are looking forward to exploring their new Utah surroundings.

CGO scholars and fellows frequently comment on a variety of topics for the popular press. The views expressed therein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Center for Growth and Opportunity or the views of Utah State University.