Introduction to the University of Tehran Institute of Governance Studies(IGS)

 University of Tehran Institute of Governance Studies is dedicated to evidence‐based policy research and solutions for complex governance challenges. Serving as a bridge between academia and policy‐makers, it fosters continuous knowledge exchange across disciplines—economics, social sciences, law, and technology. Guided by core values of academic integrity, research excellence, and independence, the Think‐Tank produces policy reports and recommendations, which are freely accessible on its website and disseminated via social media, webinars, and workshops. Its key “bridge‐building” function connects scholars, university experts, and government officials: ensuring that cutting‐edge research informs decision‐making, while real‐world policy needs shape academic inquiry. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and an agile organizational structure, the Think‐Tank strives to translate ideas into actionable policies that advance transparent, effective, and sustainable governance in Iran and beyond.

Director of the think tank

Dr. Sajjad Abdi holds a PhD in Financial and Public Sector Economics from the University of Tehran. His professional background includes eleven years of activity in the field of applied economic research. He has a history of cooperation in the field of economic policymaking with the Research Center of the Islamic Consultative Assembly, the Presidential Center for Cooperation on Development and Progress, the Economic Commission of the Cabinet, and the National Planning and Budget Organization. He has also been the Director of the Tehran Economic Policy Think Tank for five years and is currently the Deputy Director of the Governance Think Tank of the University of Tehran. Dr. Abdi’s research focuses on sustainable development studies, public and financial sector economics. In particular, the field of education economics plays a prominent role in his research. He is currently an Assistant Professor of Economics in the Department of Governance, Development and Sustainability, Faculty of Governance, University of Tehran.

Director of the AI ​​Governance Department

Mr. Mostafa Mahmoudi was accepted into the University of Tehran’s Ph.D. program as an Exceptional Talent Candidate and is currently pursuing a doctorate in Science, Technology, and Innovation Governance. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Arts in Public Administration with a specialization in Public Policy. His scholarship and professional pursuits focus on the governance and regulation of data and artificial intelligence (AI), the design and implementation of data-driven policymaking frameworks, and the ethical dimensions of emerging technologies.

Between 2022 and 2025, Mahmoudi made significant contributions to the University of Tehran’s Institute of Governance. Appointed Internal Director in the summer of 2023, he restructured core research processes and orchestrated interdisciplinary teams, thereby substantially elevating the institute’s analytical capacity. In summer 2024, he advanced to Deputy Director, spearheading the expansion of a “bridge-building” network that now links academic researchers with key governmental agencies and private-sector partners. In his current role as Chair of the AI Governance Study Group, he leads collaborative research initiatives dedicated to formulating evidence-based, ethically responsible AI policies for Iran.


Papers:
• Mahmoudi, M. (2024). Challenges and Complexities in Leveraging Data for Evidence-based Policymaking. DOI: 10.22034/jipm.2024.711524 

• Mahmoudi, M. (2024). Identifying and prioritizing the obstacles and challenges of data-driven governance from the perspective of applying artificial intelligence and data-based technologies in the public sector. DOI: 10.22034/sspp.2024.2026836.3610 

• Mahmoudi, M. (2024). Regulatory approaches to managing policy-related and ethical challenges in data-driven governance. DOI: 10.22034/sspp.2024.2026882.3625