PhD scholarship funded research projects 2025

Leadership development for youth

Supervisory Team: Brigid Carroll (Main supervisor, MIB) and Rhiannon Lloyd (Co-Supervisor, MIB)

Abstract: The Aotearoa Centre for Leadership and Governance is seeking a candidate for a PhD scholarship position in leadership development (LD) for youth. The research will be conducted in partnership with tertiary level LD programmes. The bulk of the LD literature focuses on LD for managers and professionals who are well established in their careers and organisational positions. This research marks a different and exciting direction for LD research with its focus on how youth experience and engage with LD.

The youth LD programmes of interest here are oriented at guiding and supporting youth in tertiary educational institutions to undertake leadership in their communities and to create positive social change. As youth, their leadership is often constrained by power asymmetries and a shortage of both social capital and resources that those in organisational leadership positions often have access to. Nevertheless, their leadership practices are important and may be more likely to challenge conventionality in ways that are necessary for organisations trying to respond to grand challenges such as climate change, for example. The research will be particularly interested in how participants of these programmes transition from development into post-programme communities (such as alumni) and work to weave their leadership skills and identity into these spaces.

AI for Good: Reshaping the Future Workforce

Supervisory Team: Randy Wong (Main supervisor, ISOM) Ilan Oshri (Co-Supervisor, ISOM)

Abstract: AI is a transformative general-purpose technology with applications across industries, including customer service, entertainment, and creative professions. Unlike previous technologies, AI’s adoption has been rapid, with ChatGPT gaining 100 million users in two months. AI's productivity impact, following a historical "productivity J-curve," will emerge after a lull period, meaning that AI may soon drive significant productivity growth. While these innovations promise significant productivity gains, they also present serious challenges to the workforce, particularly in terms of job displacement, skill mismatches, and increased inequality.

This project aims to explore how AI can be leveraged as a solution to address the challenges it poses. Specifically, we will investigate how AI can be used to support reskilling and upskilling of workers, thus fostering inclusive economic growth and ensuring that no segment of the workforce is left behind. We seek to contribute to the theory and practice of the responsible use of AI. Practical contributions will include guidelines or frameworks for fostering AI-driven workforce inclusivity, ensuring alignment with societal values and expectations. The findings will promote a more ethically sound AI-powered society and contribute to policy-making in New Zealand to advance a responsible AI agenda.

Exploring Gender and Entrepreneurial Ecosystems in Under-Researched Regions

Supervisory Team: Marissa Kaloga (Main Supervisor, MIB) and Chris Woods (Co-Supervisor, MIB)

Abstract: This research seeks to identify and explore non-Western approaches to organising entrepreneurial ecosystems (EEs) through the lens of intersectional feminism in under-researched regions, such as the Pacific or Sub-Saharan Africa. Current ecosystem development frameworks are predominantly based on Western models, which not only overlook the diversity of approaches globally but also fail to fully account for the gendered dimensions of entrepreneurship.

By examining how gender intersects with culture, history, and social contexts in these regions, this research will highlight the unique ways women contribute to and navigate entrepreneurial ecosystems. The Pacific and Sub-Saharan Africa are home to rich traditions of collective organising, informal economies, and community-based entrepreneurship, where gender plays a pivotal role in shaping economic activities. Studying these contexts can uncover innovative models of entrepreneurial support that are more inclusive of women's experiences, aspirations, and leadership roles.

This research is particularly relevant to Aotearoa New Zealand, where a growing focus on inclusive capitalism makes it essential to understand alternative, gender-responsive entrepreneurial frameworks. The study will provide critical insights into how entrepreneurial ecosystems can better serve diverse communities domestically - especially Māori and Pasifika women, migrant women entrepreneurs, and other historically marginalised groups.

Developing care pathways to support end-of-life healthcare decision-making

Supervisory Team: Paula Lorgelly (Joint Main-Supervisor, ECON) Julie Harrison (Joint Main-supervisor, A&F) and Paul Rouse (Advisor, A&F)

Abstract: High levels of hospital resources are needed to support the care and treatment of older people/kaumātua. Although hospital-level healthcare in old age is often necessary, research suggests that many older people/kaumātua would prefer care pathway options that enabled them to live their last days at home. However, in hospital settings, clinicians often do not have the tools or processes available to provide older people/kaumātua and their families/whānau with alternative care pathways. This mixed-methods project will investigate new processes to inform hospital-level care for older people/kaumātua. Data will be collected from New Zealand hospital information systems and from a hospital-level intervention designed to implement new decision-making processes. The research outcomes will include (1) an evaluation of the costs and benefits (for both patients and hospitals) of new care pathways designed to maximise the quality of life for older people/kaumātua in their last days and (2) the creation and evaluation of new tools and processes for clinicians designed to help them advise patients on alternative care pathways.

The Impact of Digital Transformation on Management Control Systems

Supervisory Team: Julie Harrison (Joint Main-supervisor, A&F) Frederick Ng (Joint Main-supervisor, A&F)

Abstract: Digital and AI transformation is changing how businesses operate globally. The latest technological advancements include artificial intelligence, robotics, automation, machine learning, and virtual technologies. These technologies have the potential to transform business productivity and sustainability. Industry 5.0 represents the latest “industrial revolution” that extends the focus on technology to incorporate a more human-centric approach focused on employee well-being, societal impact, and business sustainability. Much of the research on digital transformation has focused on the development and operational aspects of the new technologies. However, these technologies are also expected to affect business decision-making and the information requirements to support their use. To date, there has only been limited research examining how accounting information systems and management controls adapt to implementing these new technologies. This mixed methods study explores how changes in business processes brought about by digital transformation affect management control systems. The research aims to (1) conduct case studies in an industry where digital transformation has impacted business processes to examine how those changes have led to changes in management controls and decision-making processes and (2) contribute to our understanding of what leads to successful implementation of these new technologies.

Preventative Healthcare for Geriatric Patients

Supervisory Team: Sarah Marshall (Main-supervisor, ISOM) Lisa Hillas (Co-supervisor, ISOM)

Abstract: Many countries face the challenge of ageing populations straining healthcare services. In New Zealand, individuals aged 65 and above represent approximately 15% of the total population, but account for nearly 50% of healthcare utilisation (1). Their complex health conditions often result in extended hospital stays, resulting in significant healthcare costs and risks such as social isolation, reduced mobility, and increased infection rates. This project aims to develop preventative care models for geriatric patients that can address these risks and ultimately improve patient outcomes and quality of life. The focus will be on developing analytical models (e.g. stochastic processes, Markov decision processes, queueing, optimisation) to enhance preventative healthcare for geriatric patients; however, a range of other methodologies could also be applied (e.g. simulation and empirical analysis). Building on work from a NZ Health Research Council “Health Delivery Research Activation Grant”, this transdisciplinary and translational research project, will draw on the expertise of healthcare practitioners, and will apply methodologies from operations management in a healthcare setting. The findings from this project will inform healthcare policy and improve health outcomes for geriatric patients.

A Mixed-method Exploration of the Drivers of Successful Online Medical Crowdfunding Campaigns

Supervisory Team: Xinwei Wang (Main-supervisor, ISOM) Ying Zhang (Co-supervisor, ISOM)

Abstract: Medical crowdfunding platforms such as GoFundMe and Fundly help millions survive financial shocks due to medical needs and costs. By leveraging the power of the crowd, these platforms alleviate the financial burdens faced by individuals and government agencies. Despite the increasing popularity, medical crowdfunding campaigns face the challenge of a low success rate compared to crowdfunding projects that provide explicit or tangible returns to donors.

A handful of existing studies have started to explore the success factors of medical crowdfunding campaigns. However, these studies generally focus on a single campaign on a platform, neglecting (1) the potential competition from similar campaigns on the platform and (2) the impact of the campaign’s multihoming strategies. Hence, this project proposes a mixed-method study that (1) develops applied econometric models to explore and quantify factors influencing donors’ choices and decisions in competitive or multihoming settings, (2) establishes the causality of these success factors in achieving fundraising goals, and (3) exploits how platform designs and policies can foster more equitable outcomes in online medical crowdfunding.

This project aligns with the research theme of Inclusive Capitalism. It will contribute to the ongoing dialogue on market-based solutions in mitigating healthcare disparities and creating more inclusive crowdfunding ecosystems.

What Drives the Gender-gap in Economic Outcomes? An Empirical Investigation

Supervisory Team: Asha Sundaram (Main-supervisor, ECON and Sholeh Maani (Co-supervisor, ECON)

Abstract: Despite substantial strides in female empowerment, the gender-gap in economic outcomes remains significant globally. For instance, the difference between the median hourly earnings of women and men in Aotearoa is 8.2%. Achieving inclusive development crucially depends on understanding the factors that underlie this persistent disparity.

This research will investigate the causes of gender-gaps in economic outcomes using comprehensive household-level survey data from India and Pakistan - two ideal case studies for this inquiry. First, the data enables tracking households over time, facilitating advanced analytical methods such as panel data and instrumental variables estimation. Second, both India and Pakistan are large, emerging markets with significant growth potential, yet both face the critical challenge of low female workforce participation.

The study will examine two key areas: (i) household decision-making and (ii) the broader socioeconomic environment as potential determinants of the gender-gap. While the latter has been extensively researched, the role of household decisions is less understood. This research will explore household choices, such as fertility decisions and early investments in children’s health and education. It will also analyse the socioeconomic environment, including improvements in transportation infrastructure that connect markets and increased access to information and communications technology (ICT), which enhances information flows.

AI Audit and Governance in Automated Valuation Models

Supervisory Team: William Cheung (Main-supervisor, PROP) and Edward Yiu (Co-supervisor, PROP)

Abstract: This research aims to address the growing concerns surrounding the transparency and potential biases in Automated Valuation Models (AVMs) used in property valuations. By applying advanced bootstrapping techniques, this project will develop robust confidence intervals to better assess the bias of AVM estimates. This will provide a clearer understanding of the reliability of these models, allowing for more informed decision-making in property valuations. The study seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for AI audit and governance in property markets, improving the transparency and accountability of AI-driven valuation models. Through this, the research aims to equip valuers with better tools to handle AI technologies and ensure more transparent and informed property mass valuations. This project aligns with the University of Auckland Business School’s strategic research themes: innovation and value creation, leadership and governance.

An Investigation into Sustainable Maintenance Practices for Achieving Net Zero Energy Efficiency in Office Buildings

Supervisory Team: Mayowa Adegoriola (Main-supervisor, PROP) and Abdul-Rasheed Amidu (Co-supervisor, PROP)

Abstract: In an era where sustainability and productivity are increasingly recognised as critical components of business strategy, pursuing net-zero energy efficiency in office buildings has become an imperative objective for organisations worldwide. This research aims to investigate sustainable maintenance practices that not only enhance energy efficiency but also foster a productive work environment and promote sustainable business operations. Office buildings are among the most significant contributors to global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, necessitating urgent action to mitigate their environmental impacts. Integrating sustainable maintenance practices coupled with advanced smart building technologies is essential for monitoring, controlling, and optimising the operational functions of these structures.

This study will employ a case study methodology, utilising a mixed-methods research approach to gather qualitative and quantitative data from stakeholders of office buildings in New Zealand that have successfully enhanced their energy efficiency by adopting smart technologies and sustainable maintenance practices. The research will leverage the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) theoretical framework to systematically analyse the energy optimisation techniques employed, identify key barriers and drivers, and develop actionable strategies for achieving energy efficiency in office buildings. This approach will contribute to the existing body of knowledge and address critical gaps in understanding the interplay between technology, organisational capabilities, and environmental factors in energy management.

The culmination of this study will be the development of a comprehensive framework that organisations can adopt to implement sustainable maintenance practices effectively. This framework will align with the strategic themes of productivity and sustainable business, providing a roadmap for organisations seeking to enhance their operational efficiency, improve employee satisfaction, and contribute to a healthier environment. Ultimately, by prioritising sustainable maintenance, businesses can achieve a triple win, benefiting the environment, enhancing employee well-being, and improving their financial performance.