Doctoral research
If you're interested in joining a dynamic community of talented researchers from around the world to explore research questions that matter, we would like to hear from you.
Our research topics
Within the International Business, Strategy and Innovation group we are especially keen to receive PhD research proposals in the following areas:
Entrepreneurship in emerging markets / internationalisation strategies
- What are the internationalisation strategies for high performance among firms?
- How to advance globalisation through effective global sourcing?
Culture-strategy nexus in global organisations
- How can human mobility and international knowledge spill overs be utilised for firm success?
- What are the specific conditions for effective cross-cultural management and team working?
Social innovations and entrepreneurship / digital innovations and development
- How can public-sector innovations achievement more with less?
- How to revolutionise the financial sector through fintech innovations?
Digital strategies in the era of AI
- What challenges do organisations face in the era of AI?
- How can organisations effectively manage these challenges?
- What updates are necessary in digital ethics to foster the development of responsible AI?
Strategy and performance in complex environments
- How should corporate governance be designed for international business success?
- When to utilise information technology in the strategic decision-making process?
Please feel free to browse our group members to identify a potential supervisor(s), develop your research proposal, share this with the identified supervisor(s) and confirm they are willing to be named in support of your application. You are encouraged to ask for feedback from them to develop your research proposal. Then you should be ready to formally apply.
Proposed PhD projects
Reverse innovation for sustainable development: a new role for business and emerging economies
Project reference
LB24-SC (please quote this in your application).
Proposers
Project description
The aim of this project is to analyse the contribution of innovation towards global sustainable development by adopting a reverse innovation perspective.
Whilst business organisations have been recognised as vital partners in the achievement of sustainable development, this role has traditionally been assigned to businesses from advanced economies. In so doing, emerging economies have been considered passive recipients of development models and innovation generated by others.
This research project offers a new perspective and aims to analyse how business organisations from developing countries can be seen as central agents in the promotion of innovation for global sustainable development.
Moving from a western-centric and aid-focus approach to a more globally intertwined one that gives developing countries more agency, we investigate the role of reverse innovation for global sustainable development with three main research objectives:
- Investigate and describe the role of emerging economies as agents of global development solutions through the provision of sources of innovation;
- Identify and study cases of reverse innovation for sustainable development, to determine their micro determinants;
- Develop policy recommendations in the form of a revised global governance equilibrium that considers the new role of businesses in developing countries as contributors to sustainable development.
Sustainable business strategy in the age of AI: the business strategy to manage disinformation and fake reviews in the market
Project reference
LB24-NH (please quote this in your application).
Proposers
Project description
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to explore the intersection of sustainable business strategy and the evolving challenges brought about by artificial intelligence (AI). This research is dedicated to crafting sustainable business strategies that effectively address and mitigate risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI).
It is not just a quest for knowledge but a commitment to ethical practices, aligning seamlessly with UN Sustainable Development Goals. Amidst the evolving landscape of AI, this research delves into the intricacies of data privacy, the proliferation of disinformation, creation of fake reviews and the uncanny realism of AI-generated deepfakes. The aim is not only to understand these challenges but to pioneer actionable sustainable strategies. The research also expects candidates with Machine Learning skills.
Please apply now if you are interested in being part of a journey, where research meets real-world impact, shaping a future where business and AI co-exist harmoniously for the betterment of society.
Fintech adoption, financial literacy and sustainability development
Project reference
LB24-MY (please quote this in your application).
Proposers
Project description
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to focus on the integration of Fintech adoption and financial literacy in rural communities across South Asian countries. Aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals, this research offers a chance to delve into the complexities of financial inclusion barriers, explore the feasibility of cutting-edge Fintech solutions and evaluate their impact on sustainability performance. This is an unparalleled chance to engage in interdisciplinary research, collaborating with industry experts, local businesses and international institutions. The successful candidate will have the unique opportunity to make pioneering contributions to academia and drive real-world impact.
If you are passionate about leveraging technology for positive societal change, please apply now and be part of a research journey that shapes vibrant, inclusive and sustainable communities.