What is the focus of your research, and how did your interest in this area develop?
"I am part of a research programme on the green transition of the automotive industry in western Sweden. Within the programme, we study the societal effects of electrification from different perspectives. My specific focus is on the consequences of this transition for education and labour market actors, who support the industry by providing the necessary skills and workforce to facilitate the transition.
I find labour market issues particularly interesting because the field combines economic and broader social dimensions. A large part of my thesis explores how public and private actors collaborate. The fact that the project focuses on the automotive industry, which is so important to western Sweden, makes it especially engaging."
Could you tell us a little about yourself and your academic background?
"I completed my Bachelor's degree at Umeå University and my Master's degree at the School of Public Administration at the University of Gothenburg. After completing both degrees, I took a few years away from academia and worked in various administrative roles within government agencies. I am grateful to have gained experience in different workplaces, as these practical insights have been invaluable in bridging the gap between theory and real-world practice. It was while writing my master’s thesis that I realised I wanted to pursue a PhD. I really enjoyed the research and writing process, and I valued the independence that came with it.”
What made you decide to apply for the doctoral programme at the Department of Business Administration?
"My academic background is in political science and public administration, so I considered applying to several different departments. What attracted me to the School of Business, Economics and Law was primarily its research programme. I had not previously studied there myself, but I know many people who have.
I formed a positive impression during the interview process, and I see the department as forward-looking and actively engaged in urban development, which makes it an attractive employer to me.”
You are from Finland. Do you see any particular advantages to doing a PhD in Sweden?
"I have completed almost all of my academic education in Sweden, except for one exchange term in my home country as part of my Master's programme. I am therefore more familiar with the Swedish academic system.
I have never really considered doing a PhD in Finland. However, as a doctoral student, there are many opportunities to take courses or spend time at universities abroad. I hope to take advantage of those opportunities, preferably somewhere more exotic than Finland.”
How would you describe your experience as a doctoral student so far?
"I still feel new to the role, but I am gradually settling into life as a doctoral student. The work is very independent, which has its pros and cons. Personally, I find it important to maintain a clear boundary between work and leisure, so I try to view my studies more as a job than continued coursework. For example, I generally work regular office hours and avoid working at weekends. I believe this approach is more sustainable in the long term, and it has worked well so far.
Although the work can sometimes feel solitary, I have found many supportive colleagues, researchers, supervisors and fellow PhD students to turn to when needed. This support has been invaluable, and will likely become even more important as the process continues."
What are your academic and personal goals for your studies?
"I hope to write a thesis that is interesting and relevant to academics and practitioners in the field. I also see doctoral education as an opportunity to lay the groundwork for my future career, whether in academia or other sectors. Personally, I aspire to become an independent researcher whose work contributes to a better society.”
