Alex is a Principal at Highland focused on businesses applying information technology and innovations in physical science to challenges in energy and the environment. He is actively involved in Highland’s investments in QD Vision and Bit9. You can read Alex's blog, or follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/ataussig.

Background
Prior to joining Highland, Alex worked as a Research and Teaching Assistant with the Magnetic Materials & Devices Group at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). At MIT, he synthesized and characterized a new class of magneto-optical perovskites capable of growth on semiconductor-compatible substrates. His results were published in several notable peer-reviewed journals.

Alex also spent time at RockPort Capital Partners, a venture capital firm devoted to energy technology, and McKinsey & Company, where he provided strategic advice on business technology issues.

Alex currently serves as the President of the MIT Department of Materials Science & Engineering Alumni Association, an organization building the community of MIT materials science alumni worldwide.

Education
Harvard University, A.B., Physics, summa cum laude
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, S.M., Materials Science & Engineering
Harvard Business School, M.B.A., with High Distinction

Interests
Alex is an avid singer and instrumentalist, having performed in several opera companies, a cappella groups, and rock bands throughout college and graduate school. He lives in Boston and enjoys skiing, swimming, and exploring the city’s restaurant scene in his spare time.