Gary Gensler, former United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) chairman, has transitioned from his regulatory post to an academic role. He will join the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), a private research university in Cambridge, as a Professor of Practice in the Global Economics and Management Group, jointly with the Finance Group.
An official source confirmed that Gensler will also co-direct the FinTechAI@CSAIL initiative within MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory with Professor Andrew W. Lo.
Gensler To Work Alongside MIA Researchers
Following the new role, the program will allow participating companies to collaborate with top MIT researchers to investigate emerging AI technologies, identify new opportunities, address technical challenges, and explore applications within the finance sector.
“I am honored to return to MIT, whose faculty, staff, and students have long been at the cutting edge of research and technology,” the former SEC Chair said.
Gensler added that he is thrilled to partner with the university’s distinguished team of scholars, creating a better future for all through artificial intelligence, finance, and technology.
The former US SEC chief has long been part of the university before leading the SEC from 2021 to 2025. According to the former investment banker, he was Professor of the Practice of Global Economics and Management, co-director of MIT’s FinTech@CSAIL, and senior advisor to the MIT Media Lab Digital Currency Initiative. He also won the MIT Sloan Outstanding Teacher Award based on student nominations for the 2018–19 academic year.
Gensler’s Last Day in Office
His return to an academic role came when he stepped down as the SEC boss, which resulted in enthusiasm within the crypto community. During his tenure, Gensler ramped up top crypto exchanges, like Binance and Crypto.com, accusing them of offering illegal securities to users.
Gensler’s departure is also seen as a significant development, particularly for Ripple, entangled in a high-profile lawsuit with the SEC over the regulatory status of Ripple’s XRP coin.
The report of his resignation was first announced on November 21, 2024, which coincided with Donald Trump’s inauguration as the new U.S. President.
According to the press release, Gensler helped the agency to make remarkable progress over the years. He helped America attain higher efficiency, resiliency, and integrity. Additionally, he led many law enforcement cases, ensuring that criminals received their punishments while stolen funds were refunded to affected investors and rightful owners.