Busra Ekinci, Pre-Doctoral Researcher: Her Role in Shaping Sustainable Business Practices

Busra Ekinci, joined INSEAD as a pre-doctorial researcher in 2023 at the Sustainable Business Initiative (SBI) within INSEAD's Technology and Operations Management department.  

What drew Busra to INSEAD was its reputation as one of the world's leading business schools, renowned for academic excellence, innovation, and global impact. Busra found the research opportunities, expertise of faculty members, extensive network of students and executives, and international standing particularly attractive. She saw the potential to contribute positively to global challenges through research at INSEAD. 

The SBI focuses on producing relevant research to help shape sustainable business practice. While decision-makers often lack the necessary tools to drive this transformation, Busra's role within the SBI is to develop analytical tools, business frameworks, and strategies through research initiatives to facilitate the transition to sustainable practices.  

As a recipient of funding myself, I am grateful for the opportunity to conduct research on such an impactful topic and to contribute to the academic and business community without financial constraints.

The impact of the SBI's research team resonates across various sectors, fostering a transition to sustainable practices. Through collaborations with companies like TetraPAK, Fairphone, and the Paris Olympics 2024, the research findings seamlessly integrate into their sustainability strategies. Furthermore, INSEAD students gain invaluable insights through educational materials and case studies derived from these findings, enhancing their grasp of contemporary sustainability challenges. Lastly, contributions to academic literature not only advance knowledge but also stimulate ongoing dialogue and progress within the SBI team and the wider academic community. 

Commenting on the importance of research funding, “research funding plays a vital role in enabling talented individuals, from diverse backgrounds and regardless of their financial circumstances, to pursue an academic career,” says Busra. “This support ensures that academia remains objective and accessible.“

Looking ahead, Busra emphasises the complexity of sustainability challenges and the need for innovative strategies and tools to address them effectively. With a commitment to continuing research and generating impactful ideas, Busra aims to contribute to the transition towards a sustainable world, tackling diverse challenges and envisioning a future where sustainability is prioritised across all sectors.