IAGR2025 session:
PANEL – Academic and applied research collaboration: Using industry data to support evidence-based regulation
Land-based gambling systems generate rich behavioural data, but this resource remains underused in safer gambling efforts.
In this session, Focal Research and the UNLV International Gaming Institute share insights from a collaborative, self-funded research program designed to analyse systems data in novel ways. They’ll explore how academic–industry partnerships can secure sensitive data, replicate findings across venues, and provide stronger evidence to inform regulation.
Key findings include when to engage players during continuous play and how small incentives affect participation in safer gambling initiatives.
Dr Ghaharian will be joined on the panel by:
- Dr Tony Schellinck, CEO, Focal Research Consultants
- Tracy Schrans, President, Focal Research Consultants
- Dr Melissa Salmon, Applied Research Lead, Focal Research Consultants
About Kasra:
Dr. Kasra Ghaharian is the Director of Research for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, International Gaming Institute.
He is a global gaming expert whose research interests center around in AI applications and ethics, machine learning, consumer protection, and payments modernization. His work has been published in leading journals in gambling studies, hospitality, human-computer interaction, computer science, and psychology.
Dr. Ghaharian has also presented his research at academic and industry conferences across North America and Europe, including ICE, G2E, RGC Discovery, and GLI’s Regulators Roundtable. Ghaharian has also been called upon by media outlets including BBC, Business Insider, and GGB Magazine to offer industry insights.
