Nikolai Kukharkin

Nikolai Kukharkin is a seasoned risk management professional with extensive experience in model risk governance across prestigious financial institutions. Currently serving as the Head of Quantitative Risk Control and Managing Director at MUFG since April 2021, Kukharkin oversees the model risk framework for MUFG Americas. Previously, Kukharkin held the role of Head of Model Risk Management at TIAA, directing an enterprise-wide team responsible for compliance and risk reporting. Kukharkin's tenure at UBS included serving as Global Head of Model Risk Management & Control, where significant achievements included the establishment of a comprehensive Model Risk Management framework. Early career experience includes roles at JPMorgan Chase, Wexford Management LLC, Princeton University, and the Kurchatov Institute, showcasing a diverse background in quantitative analysis and research in both financial markets and complex scientific phenomena. Kukharkin holds a PhD in Plasma Physics and Hydrodynamics from the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, where advanced studies were pursued in nuclear physics and plasma physics.