Rajiv Bhat

Professional Background

Rajiv Bhat is an innovative leader in the realms of physics and technology, known for his passion for startup culture and creative problem-solving. Throughout his career, he has embraced the principles of innovation, working diligently to contribute to the advancement of artificial intelligence and data science in the tech landscape. His extensive expertise has been built through a series of esteemed roles, from his formative years in academic research to high-profile positions within leading technology firms and venture capital.

Rajiv's entrepreneurial spirit is most noticeable in his journey through Y Combinator, where he not only honed his business acumen but also connected with some of the brightest minds in the startup ecosystem. This experience propelled him into various partnerships and leadership roles in emerging tech companies, solidifying his reputation as a driving force behind technological innovation.

As a General Partner at AI Fund and a Senior Venture Partner at Pioneer Fund, Rajiv has played an integral role in shaping strategies for investment in artificial intelligence technologies. His contributions as an Advisor at Hummingbot.io and his previous position as Co-Founder and CEO at Martini.ai highlight his desire to lead and innovate in the field of AI, further influencing the growth of tech startups across the globe.

Rajiv's extensive experience at InMobi, where he held multiple key leadership roles including Senior Vice President of Data Sciences and Marketplace, has equipped him with a deep understanding of data-driven decision-making and marketplace dynamics. During his tenure, he was pivotal in steering data sciences initiatives that enhanced InMobi's offerings and significantly improved their marketplace strategies.

Furthermore, Rajiv co-founded Mertado.com and contributed to various other entrepreneurial ventures, signifying his unwavering commitment to leveraging technology for transformative business solutions.

Education and Achievements

Rajiv's impressive educational background laid the foundation for his illustrious career. He earned his B.S./M.S. (Int) in Physics from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, where he cultivated a robust understanding of theoretical physics that would later inform his work in tech innovation. He continued to expand his academic horizons by pursuing a Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics at the University of Colorado Boulder. His doctoral research focused on tackling complex scientific problems, equipping him with the analytical skills crucial for success in his professional pursuits.

In addition, Rajiv undertook a Bridge MBA at The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth, where he merged his technical knowledge with core business principles, gaining invaluable insights into management and strategic thinking. This unique blend of skills has empowered Rajiv to navigate the intersection of science, technology, and business competently.

Rajiv's passion for learning and his commitment to continuous improvement reflect his upbringing at Frank Anthony Public School, which nurtured his early interests in science and mathematics.

Notable Contributions

Throughout his career, Rajiv Bhat has made significant contributions to multiple facets of technology and education, highlighting his versatility and dedication to fostering innovation. As a former mentor at Startup School MOOC at Y Combinator, he shared his knowledge and experiences with aspiring entrepreneurs, guiding them in transforming their ideas into viable business opportunities. Rajiv's role on the Big Data Advisory Board at Rutgers University–New Brunswick further exemplifies his focus on advancing research and practical applications in data science and artificial intelligence.

His work as a business analyst at McKinsey & Company reflects his strategic vision and ability to analyze complex business challenges, laying the groundwork for his future roles in data science and marketplace management. Additionally, Rajiv has contributed to academic research through positions such as Research Assistant at the University of Innsbruck and the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, where he helped conduct essential studies in theoretical physics and beyond.

Rajiv's journey is a testament to his commitment to reinvigorating the business landscape with creative solutions and innovative technologies. His ability to seamlessly integrate his academic achievements with professional accomplishments makes him a unique asset in the tech industry.

Achievements

• Co-Founder and CEO of Martini.ai, leading AI-driven projects.
• Senior Vice President at InMobi, where he advanced data science initiatives to bolster marketplace strategies.
• General Partner at AI Fund, investing in groundbreaking AI startups.
• Member of the Big Data Advisory Board at Rutgers University–New Brunswick, contributing to academic and industry advancements.
• Mentor at Y Combinator's Startup School, empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs.