Personal profile

Research interests

My research analyzes the social contexts influencing the success and failure of entrepreneurial activities as well as of firm innovation. The first stream of research focuses on how family background and social networks influence entrepreneurial entry and performance. The second stream of research focuses on how linkages to universities enhance firms' technological innovation. I build on these insights to design and evaluate corporate strategies and public policies that foster entrepreneurship and innovation, particularly in settings which are characterized by weak institutions and institutional voids.

Methodologically, my work combines statistical analysis with more grounded interviewing and experimental methods. I have worked with both cross-sectional and longitudinal survey data, as well as publicly listed firms’ panel data. To elicit causal effects, I use quasi-experimental variations from policy changes and historical events. Thus, my research employs difference-in-differences method, instrument variable estimations and matching techniques. 

I have published in Journal of Management Studies, Journal of Business Research, Asia Pacific Journal of Management and Social Networks

Other responsibilities

I am serving at the editorial review board of Journal of Management Studies. I am also an ad-hoc reviewer for Administrative Science Quarterly, Journal of Business Venturing, Strategic Entrepreneurship Journal, Journal of Business Ethics, Entrepreneurship and Regional Development, Small Business Economics, Family Business Review, Journal of Business Research. 

Expertise related to UN Sustainable Development Goals

In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. This person’s work contributes towards the following SDG(s):

  • SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
  • SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth
  • SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

Education/Academic qualification

Economics, Doctor of Philosophy, Johann Wolfgang Goethe-Universitat Frankfurt am Main

Award Date: 19 Aug 2020

Economics, Master in Science, Lund University School of Economics and Management

Award Date: 10 Dec 2013

Economics, Bachelor of Science, Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics

Award Date: 1 Jul 2008

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