Yangyang (Iris) Cheng

My name is Yangyang (Iris) Cheng, and I am a Ph.D. graduate in Strategy and Entrepreneurship at Bocconi University. 

I joined the IE university as an Assistant Professor in Strategy in September 2026.

I research how startups make strategic decisions in uncertain environments, particularly focus on digital platforms and sustainability, including both environmental and social dimensions. I explore topics like entrepreneurial financing, venture capital, innovation, competition, and collaboration. In my dissertation, I examine the challenges startups face, including the pressures from large incumbents, the complexities of securing financing while pursuing dual objectives, and the intellectual property issues arising from operating within open-source communities. 

Besides, I bring strong teaching experience that reflects my deep passion for student engagement and turning ideas into action in the classroom. Specifically, I have taught a graduate-level Industry Analysis (Industrial Economics and Innovation) course, which explores the theoretical foundations of industrial organization and innovation, and a Research-oriented Method Seminar at ICRIOS. At the undergraduate level, I have taught International Business Strategy (market assessment and internationalization planning), Management (managerial decision-making and its economic underpinnings). 

Before my PhD, I had six years of industry experience across roles in banking and startups. 

For more information, please see my CV.