Prof. Frederick Harris | Market Microstructure | Best Researcher Award

Education

Professor Frederick H. de B. Harris obtained his Ph.D. in Financial Economics from the University of Virginia in 1981. His dissertation focused on the Structure-Performance Hypotheses, presenting a market-value-maximizing approach that has influenced his subsequent research. Prior to his doctoral studies, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics with distinction from Dartmouth College in 1971, where he laid the groundwork for his understanding of economic principles. The combination of rigorous academic training and a strong foundation in economic theory has equipped Professor Harris with the analytical skills necessary to explore complex financial issues. His educational background reflects a commitment to excellence that has defined his career. Over the years, he has also enriched his expertise through various visiting scholar positions and fellowships in prestigious institutions across the globe, allowing him to engage with diverse academic communities and broaden his research perspectives. This educational journey has not only shaped his professional identity but also his approach to teaching and research, ultimately contributing to his stature as a leading figure in the fields of economics and finance.

Professional Experience

Professor Frederick H. de B. Harris has held an impressive array of academic positions throughout his career, contributing significantly to the field of economics and finance. He began as an Assistant Professor of Economics at the University of Texas at Arlington, where he taught from 1981 to 1984. His career advanced at William and Mary from 1976 to 1980, where he held a similar position. He joined Wake Forest University in 1990, where he has served in multiple capacities, including as a Professor of Managerial Economics and Finance and the John B. McKinnon Professor of Economics and Finance. His leadership roles include serving as the Senior Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs at the Babcock Graduate School of Management. In addition to his primary appointment, he has engaged in numerous visiting scholar roles internationally, enhancing his research and teaching capabilities. Professor Harris’s diverse experience across various institutions underscores his adaptability and commitment to academic excellence. As he transitions to emeritus status in 2025, his extensive professional background highlights his influence on both students and the broader academic community.

Research Interests

Professor Frederick H. de B. Harris specializes in pricing tactics and revenue management within product markets, as well as mechanism design and price discovery in security markets. His research interests reflect a deep engagement with critical issues in financial economics, particularly regarding how pricing strategies impact market behavior and firm performance. His work often explores the intersection of theory and practice, aiming to provide insights that are applicable to real-world scenarios. He has published extensively in leading journals, contributing to fields such as finance, operations, and management. Furthermore, his research has implications for both academics and practitioners, addressing challenges faced in financial markets. Professor Harris’s scholarly contributions not only enhance the theoretical framework of economics but also offer practical guidance for business leaders and policymakers. Through his research, he strives to advance understanding of how economic principles can be effectively applied to improve decision-making in both corporate and financial environments. His ongoing inquiry into pricing strategies and financial mechanisms reflects his commitment to addressing contemporary challenges in the dynamic landscape of economics and finance.

Research Skills

Professor Frederick H. de B. Harris possesses a robust set of research skills honed through decades of academic inquiry and practical application. His expertise in financial economics equips him with advanced analytical capabilities, enabling him to dissect complex economic problems and develop innovative solutions. He is adept at quantitative analysis, utilizing statistical methods to derive meaningful insights from data. This proficiency is evident in his published work, which spans multiple high-impact journals in finance and economics. Additionally, his experience in teaching various graduate-level courses has further refined his ability to communicate complex concepts clearly and effectively to diverse audiences. Professor Harris is also skilled in mechanism design, allowing him to explore how different economic models can influence market outcomes. His interdisciplinary approach, drawing from economics, finance, and operations, enriches his research perspective. Moreover, his extensive collaborative experience, both domestically and internationally, enhances his ability to engage with different academic communities and foster fruitful research partnerships. These skills collectively underscore his contributions to the field and his ongoing commitment to advancing knowledge in economics and finance.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his illustrious career, Professor Frederick H. de B. Harris has received numerous awards and honors, reflecting his dedication to excellence in both research and teaching. He has been recognized as the Outstanding Educator by the Babcock Graduate School of Management multiple times, highlighting his commitment to student success and engagement. Additionally, he has been honored with two school-wide Researcher of the Year awards, acknowledging his significant contributions to academic scholarship. His courses have been recognized as among the most popular electives, demonstrating his effectiveness as an educator and the high regard in which students hold him. He also served on the Board of Associate Editors for the Journal of Industrial Economics, underscoring his influence in the academic community. His outstanding publications have received accolades, including Outstanding Academic Publication Awards in 1987 and 1989. Furthermore, his recognition by Business Week and Inc. Magazine for excellence in teaching adds to his esteemed reputation. These honors reflect not only his individual accomplishments but also his enduring impact on the academic landscape in economics and finance, solidifying his status as a leader in his field.