M. Nasim Khan is Professor at the World Arthistory Institute (WAI), Shanghai International Studies University, and his research focuses mainly on Gandharan studies. He obtained his doctorate with distinction from Sorbonne University, Paris. Prior to joining WAI, he served as Director of the Institute of Archaeology and Anthropology at the University of Peshawar and at the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums of the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He is also founder of the journal Gandharan Studies. His published books include: Buddhist Paintings in Gandhara (2000), Treasures from Kashmir Smast--The Earliest Shaiva Monastic Establishments (2006), Kharoshthi Manuscripts from Gandhara (2008), Coins from Kashmir Smast--New Numismatic Evidence (2008), The Sacred and the Secular--Investigating the Unique Stupa and Settlement Site of Aziz Dheri (3 vols., 2012), and Kashmir Smast--The Earliest Seat of Hindu Learning (2 vols., 2018).

In recognition of his outstanding achievements in education and research, he was selected for the Higher Education Commission's Best University Teacher Award and one of the highest Pakistan National Civil Awards, the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz.