Elena Belavina

Bridging the gap between disciplines to tackle pressing environmental challenges, Elena Belavina is an Associate Professor at Cornell Tech’s SC Johnson College of Business. Her research is at the forefront of sustainable food systems and transportation, where she collaborates with startups, established companies, and public agencies to drive impactful change. With a keen interest in the design of bike-share systems, she examines how these systems can be optimized to enhance urban mobility and reduce carbon footprints. Elena's work delves into the environmental impact of online grocery shopping, aiming to uncover strategies that can mitigate its ecological footprint. Her innovative research also explores the role of computer vision technology in reducing food waste within commercial kitchens, providing insights that are crucial for developing more sustainable practices in the food industry. Her academic journey began with a bachelor's and master's degrees in applied mathematics and physics from the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, followed by a Ph.D. from INSEAD. This strong foundation in quantitative analysis and problem-solving informs her econometric analysis and machine learning approaches to research. Elena's contributions extend beyond academia, as she actively engages with supply chain intermediaries and transportation networks to foster sustainable practices. Her interdisciplinary approach and commitment to sustainability make her a leading figure in the field, inspiring both her students and collaborators to pursue innovative solutions for a more sustainable future.