Expanding Horizons: A PhD Journey of Growth, Research, and Global Collaboration

Hira Wajahat Malik, EBS Junior Research Fellow:

Embarking on a PhD at Estonian Business School (EBS) has been one of the most transformative experiences of my personal and professional life. Throughout 2024, I had the privilege of engaging in numerous opportunities that enriched my academic journey, broadened my international network, and opened doors for meaningful collaborations.

A highlight of the year was my research secondment as part of the MOCCA project at Westminster International University in Tashkent (WIUT), Uzbekistan. The project “MOCCA: Multilevel Orders of Corruption in Central Asia,” is funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement No. 10108585.

During my secondment, I developed the first draft of a research article on the Green Transition in Uzbekistan, which I had the opportunity to present in a seminar at WIUT. The presentation initiated engaging discussions, led to deeper collaboration, and paved the way for joint project development and EU-funded research proposals. Beyond research, we are now actively exploring staff exchange programs and guest lecturing opportunities between EBS and WIUT. Strengthening these academic ties creates new pathways for faculty and students at EBS, providing access to international research networks, cross-cultural learning experiences, and potential co-teaching and mobility programs.

Uzbekistan itself was an eye-opener—a fascinating fusion of rich history and modern development. The warmth of the people made the experience even more special, and the cuisine was an adventure in itself—each meal telling its own story.

This journey underscores the value of international collaboration and interdisciplinary research, both for individual scholars and for institutions like EBS. As I continue my PhD, I look forward to further fostering such partnerships, contributing to impactful research, and helping create more avenues for engagement between EBS and global academic institutions.

For students and faculty at EBS, this is just one example of how a PhD journey can go beyond traditional research, fostering international opportunities, professional growth, and meaningful global impact. Would you like to explore research collaborations, secondment opportunities, or academic exchanges? Join us at EBS and be part of a thriving global research community.