Sergey Nazarov

Sergey Nazarov is an entrepreneur and technologist recognized as the co-founder of Chainlink, a decentralized blockchain oracle network that serves as foundational infrastructure for the global Web3 ecosystem. Nazarov launched Chainlink with Steve Ellis and Ari Juels and serves as CEO of Chainlink Labs, the company established to advance the protocol. He holds a bachelor's degree in philosophy and management from New York University, an academic background that informs his interdisciplinary approach to addressing complex blockchain challenges.

Prior to founding Chainlink, Nazarov gained experience in venture capital and early-stage blockchain ventures. He served as a teaching fellow at the Stern School of Business at New York University, assisting Professor Lawrence Lenihan in a technology entrepreneurship course. Nazarov was involved with blockchain projects including QED Capital, CryptaMail, and Secure Asset Exchange, which provided practical experience with blockchain technology and highlighted the need for reliable, real-world data connectivity—a challenge that became central to his career.

Chainlink is a decentralized oracle network enabling smart contracts to securely access off-chain data feeds, web APIs, and other resources. Nazarov co-authored the Chainlink white paper with Cornell University professor Ari Juels, outlining the protocol. The network has become integral to decentralized finance, with the Chainlink ecosystem supporting more than 1,600 projects and over 1,000 bespoke oracle networks, facilitating trillions of dollars in transaction value. Chainlink collaborates with major financial institutions including BNP, Bank of America, and Citibank, demonstrating its reach across decentralized and traditional finance sectors.

Nazarov is a prominent figure in the blockchain industry, contributing to policy discussions and industry forums. He has been recognized by CoinDesk as one of the most influential people in blockchain and has served on the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission's Innovation Advisory Committee, advising on blockchain and artificial intelligence in derivatives markets. Nazarov has delivered keynote addresses at global events such as Sibos, TOKEN2049, EthCC, and the Singapore FinTech Festival, and has participated in policy summits including the White House Digital Asset Summit.

Through his work with Chainlink and public engagement, Nazarov has shaped the conversation about blockchain's role in the global economy, emphasizing practical utility, regulatory cooperation, and the integration of decentralized and traditional finance. His vision positions blockchain infrastructure as a critical societal resource, driving Chainlink's ongoing development and influence at the intersection of technology, finance, and public policy.