Prof. Ahmed Banafa has extensive experience in research, operations and management, with focus on IoT, Blockchain, Cybersecurity and AI. He is a reviewer and a technical contributor for the publication of several technical books. He served as an instructor at well-known universities and colleges, including the Stanford University, University of California, Berkeley; California State University-East Bay; San Jose State University; and University of Massachusetts. He is the recipient of several awards, including Distinguished Tenured Staff Award, Instructor of the year for 4 years in a row, and Certificate of Honor from the City and County of San Francisco. He was named as No.1 tech voice to follow, technology fortune teller and influencer by LinkedIn in 2018 by LinkedIn, his researches featured in many reputable sites and magazines including Forbes, IEEE and MIT Technology Review, and Interviewed by ABC, CBS, NBC,BBC, NPR and Fox TV and Radio stations. He is a member of MIT Technology Review Global Panel.  He studied Electrical Engineering at Lehigh University, Cybersecurity at Harvard University and Digital Transformation at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). He is the author of the books: “Secure and Smart Internet of Things (IoT) using Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence (AI)” , and “Blockchain Technology and Applications” . Winner of Author & Artist Award 2019 of San Jose State University for "Secure and Smart IoT" Book.