Meet the New McDonough Faculty: Matthew Zahn

We are pleased to welcome new faculty members to the Georgetown McDonough community this fall. 

In our Meet the New McDonough Faculty Series, learn more about the interests, specialties, experiences, and personalities behind the talented academics at the McDonough School of Business. 

We spoke with Matthew Zahn, assistant professor of strategy, about what he hopes to accomplish at Georgetown through his engagement with students, classroom teachings, and beyond.

How would you describe yourself in a few words?

I’m passionate about what I do and try to make the most of every opportunity. At the same time, I value levity — I’m a sucker for a good joke or a well-timed moment of humor.

What institution or previous line of work are you coming from?

I earned my Ph.D. in economics from Johns Hopkins University. Prior to my Ph.D. studies, I worked in litigation/economic consulting.

What are you most looking forward to about your work at Georgetown McDonough?

There’s a lot of energy in the building from both students and faculty. I’m excited to contribute to that dynamic, learn new ideas that inform my research and teaching, and find meaningful ways to add value to the community.

What is your area(s) of expertise and which subject(s) are you most passionate about?

My research focuses on competition and regulatory design in healthcare markets. Much of my work examines health insurance — particularly Medicare Advantage, the private insurance program for seniors. I’m also interested in how individuals make health-related decisions under uncertainty, especially when today’s choices shape future outcomes.

How would you describe your work or teaching philosophy?

Persistence. Research is full of unexpected challenges, and it’s easy to feel discouraged or intimidated. But progress comes from recognizing those moments as part of the process and continuing forward. The same applies to teaching — grappling with new frameworks or concepts can be difficult, but perseverance is key.

What is your favorite quote and why?

Alea iacta est (The die has been cast). Julius Caesar is supposed to have said this as he crossed the Rubicon. We often face moments like these — some shaped by our own choices, others by forces beyond our control. The key is to recognize them, accept them, and move forward with purpose.

What is your favorite book, podcast, or movie, and why?

School of Rock: I can probably still recite the movie verbatim. It sparked my interest in music, and now I listen to a wide range of genres. During grad school, my Spotify Wrapped clocked in at 70 to 80,000 minutes of listening (roughly 48–55 days). 

All the President’s Men: It’s a classic and an entry point to a fascinating era of American history.

What do you hope to bring to the McDonough community?

Curiosity, a collaborative spirit, and a desire to contribute — whether through research, teaching, or helping strengthen the community.