This year, the UD Alfred Lerner College welcomed several new faculty members into its community. Saif Mir is an assistant professor of operations management. He spoke with Lerner about his research focus and what sparked his interest in supply chain management.
Lerner: What is your professional and academic background?
Mir: I earned both my MBA and Ph.D. in supply chain management from the University of Arkansas. Prior to transitioning to academia, I worked as a merchant mariner on oil tankers in deck operations. My final position at sea was Second Officer, and I obtained my Chief Mate’s license before leaving the maritime industry to pursue graduate studies.
Lerner: What is your research focus?
Mir: My research focuses on behavioral supply chain management, with an emphasis on logistics and sustainability. I examine how psychological, relational and informational factors such as fairness perceptions, feedback systems and social signals shape managerial, worker and consumer decision-making within supply chains. Broadly, I am interested in understanding how behavioral mechanisms influence operational performance and how supply chain systems can be designed to be both efficient and socially responsible.
Lerner: What inspired you to work in your field/research/subject area?
Mir: My interest in behavioral supply chain management is rooted in my industry experience. As a merchant mariner on oil tankers, I saw firsthand how individual decisions and behaviors could influence operational efficiency and environmental outcomes. Later, through exposure to buyer–supplier dynamics and customer-facing logistics settings, I became interested in how managerial and consumer behavior shape supply chain performance. These experiences motivated me to pursue research that is both academically rigorous and practically relevant.
Lerner: What is it about UD that made you want to work/teach/research here?
Mir: During my campus visit, I had thoughtful conversations with faculty and appreciated the seriousness with which people approach both research and teaching. I was also drawn to UD’s location and Lerner’s strong reputation as an established business school. It felt like a place where I could contribute meaningfully and continue to grow professionally.
Lerner: What course are you most excited to teach at Lerner?
Mir: I’m especially excited to teach BUAD 446, Operations and Supply Chain Strategy. I structured the course around the Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) framework to help students understand how supply chain decisions connect across planning, sourcing, making, and delivering. Through simulations, case discussions and presentations, students apply concepts to practical situations while strengthening their communication skills. I also incorporate career-focused activities to help students connect classroom learning to professional opportunities.
Lerner: What is something unique about you that may surprise your peers/students? (hobby, talent, experience etc.)
Mir: I’ve worked as a merchant mariner on oil tankers, standing watch during typhoons and preparing for pirate risks in the Gulf of Aden. I’ve also completed a 200-hour yoga teacher training.