The GNAM Online PhD Lecture Series in Innovation and Entrepreneurship is a new doctoral initiative of the Global Network for Advanced Management, coordinated by ESMT Berlin and led by Professors David Robinson (Duke University Fuqua School of Business, ESMT Berlin and NBER) and Henry Sauermann (ESMT Berlin).
It brings together PhD students from across the Global Network for Advanced Management to explore frontier research in innovation and entrepreneurship. The series features internationally recognized scholars from leading universities including Oxford, Yale, HEC Paris, Stockholm School of Economics, Duke, and ESMT Berlin.
Over eight monthly online sessions, starting in September 2026, participants examine how disruptive innovations emerge, how entrepreneurial ventures are created and financed, how venture capital shapes startup development, how new technologies diffuse through firms and markets, and how founders, investors, and early employees influence entrepreneurial success. The series combines rigorous academic research with practical perspectives, including an opening founder fireside chat with entrepreneur and investor Lukasz Gadowski. Designed specifically for PhD students, the program emphasizes active participation. Each session combines faculty lectures with team-based student presentations, breakout discussions, and opportunities to exchange ideas with peers and faculty from across the GNAM network. Participants receive a certificate of participation upon successful completion of the program.
The lecture series is open to PhD students enrolled at GNAM member schools whose research interests align with innovation and entrepreneurship. Interested students should contact their PhD supervisor or doctoral program office to express their interest in participating. Faculty members are invited to nominate suitable candidates.
Participants are expected to prepare assigned readings, actively contribute to discussions, and present selected research papers as part of a student team.
Details about how to participating coming soon. (This message is being posted on July 14, 2026.)