The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has appointed Andrei Kirilenko as its chief economist.

The Office of the Chief Economist is responsible for providing expert economic advice to the Commission. Its functions include policy analysis, economic research, expert testimony, education and training.

Kirilenko has been with the CFTC since 2008. He received his Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania, where he specialized in finance. His research has focused on the informational properties and the microstructure of financial markets.

During his tenure at the CFTC, Kirilenko has worked on a broad range of issues related to the design and operations of agricultural, energy and financial contracts and markets. Most recently, he has been working on issues related to algorithmic and high frequency trading and played a key role in the review of the unusual market events of 6 May 2010.

Prior to joining the CFTC, he spent 12 years at the IMF working on global capital markets issues.

CFTC chairman Gary Gensler said Andrei’s in-depth understanding and appreciation of the many important economic issues facing the Commission and the futures and swaps markets will prove invaluable.

"I am very pleased that he has accepted this appointment. I look forward to continuing to work closely with him to ensure market integrity and protect the American public," Gensler said.