A research visit at HUMLOG / Hanken

Embarking on my first research visit to HUMLOG at Hanken University in Helsinki, I was filled with curiosity. With no clear expectations, both on a professional and personal level, I found myself questioning: What outcomes am I anticipating from this venture and, more importantly, what do I expect from myself? 

As always, you get out what you put in, and the more you embrace it, the more you will be rewarded. So, I got to know HUMLOG and the team by being present in their office including their common area, joining their research, teaching and social meetings and engaging in the opportunities to discuss research specific topics. This would not have been possible, without the welcoming and warming environment created by the team members. The positive atmosphere manifested itself in informal conversations, joined lunches and team activities such as playing table soccer. 

During my stay, I focused on accelerating my research projects related to supply chain disruptions from a multi-disciplinary perspective. This involved integrating insights from various streams of supply chain management research to develop a comprehensive understanding of how supply chains can be more resilient in the face of disruptions. One of the highlights of my stay was the opportunity to collaborate with leading researchers in the field. We discussed the intricacies of paradox theory, considerations about the story line of my paper, and how to write an interesting introduction to a paper. The environment at HUMLOG was incredibly conducive to collaboration, with regular seminars, workshops, and informal discussions fostering a rich exchange of ideas. 

I was able to present my work on several occasions, receiving constructive feedback that was both insightful and actionable. The opportunities occurred in the form of a dedicated talk in front of the team, taking part in a lecture and individual meetings with faculty members. These interactions were not just limited to formal settings; even casual conversations over coffee often led to thought-provoking discussions that significantly enhanced my research. The feedback and recommendations I received were invaluable, particularly because I had been stuck in a loop, thinking in circles on some of my current research challenges. The fresh perspectives and expert advice I gained at HUMLOG helped me break out of this vicious cycle and into a new dynamic of productivity and progress. 

This was instrumental for me, as it provided the clarity and direction I needed to move forward. The valuable input from my peers and mentors at HUMLOG not only improved the quality of my research but also enhanced my writing skills. I learned new approaches that I could apply to my work, making my research more robust and impactful. The insights into advanced writing approaches, new ideas on how to present empirical evidence and constructive questions on my story line are essential to improve my work. I will incorporate the learning into my current projects to make them stronger in terms of language and to show a conclusive chain of evidence that will convince my readers of the results and impact of my study. Overall, the collaborative and supportive environment at HUMLOG played a crucial role in advancing my research and helping me achieve my academic goals. 

Beyond the academic realm, living in Helsinki was a delightful experience, and provided a perfect backdrop for my stay. The accommodation at Töölö Towers is centrally located. I especially liked the location between two accesses to the sea with beautiful sunrises and sunsets. The weather was very pleasant, so I even took the opportunity to swim in the sea. A stay in Helsinki is not complete without a sauna visit, so I tried different locations around the city. You can also visit several cities and several islands in the Helsinki area. At the weekends I went on day trips to cities like Porvoo and Turku and explored the archipelago, which is easily accessible by ferry from the Helsinki Market Square. 

My research stay at HUMLOG, Hanken, was a remarkable journey of learning and endeavors. The knowledge and experiences I gained have profoundly impacted my academic and professional trajectory. I am grateful for the opportunity and look forward to applying what I have learned in the future. Additionally, I hope that the people and the team I interacted with got something out of my visit as well. 

How did my (unclear) expectations turn out: they were overachieved! I got great input, interacted with students and colleagues to get new ideas and energy for current and future research projects! And moreover, I am eager for more … [research achievements, personal interaction, and whatever research troughs at me]! So, I encourage everyone to take the chance if you get it and throw yourself out there.