Can Dogan

Hello! I am Can Dogan (pronounced as “John Doan”). I am an Associate Professor of Economics and a Special Sworn Status Researcher at the Center for Economic Studies at the Census Bureau. My research fields include Industrial Organization, International Economics, and Business Forecasting. My background in engineering grounds my economic perspective in technical and analytical rigor. I have a wide range of publications in journals of high reputation including Management Science, Journal of Productivity Analysis, Review of International Economics, and International Review of Economics and Finance. My recent research explores how people perceive and respond differently to advice from human advisors versus algorithms. I also examine how the rise of AI is reshaping the business ecosystem, particularly how it influences the characteristics of startups, using data from Business Formation Statistics.

I genuinely enjoy spending time with my students, discussing current issues, exchanging ideas, and learning together. If you're taking my class, be prepared for lively, thought-provoking discussions. I believe every student has unique potential, and I take pride in helping to activate and nurture that. My goal is to challenge students, spark their curiosity, and show them how deeply relevant Economics is to their everyday lives. 

Outside the classroom, I’m married with three children and enjoy spending time with my family—especially in outdoor settings. I have a fondness for fishing, even if I don’t catch much, and I enjoy solving math puzzles and brain teasers in my spare time. I used to play soccer regularly, but these days I’m more of a fan, especially of European leagues. 

I firmly believe that education and open communication are key to improving lives and strengthening communities. I’m actively involved in community-focused initiatives and serve on several non-profit boards. Before moving to Virginia, I served as a Board Member of the Houston Intercontinental Chamber of Commerce and the YMCA International. I am also a Senior Fellow of the American Leadership Forum, Houston Chapter.