Ahm Shamsuzzoha || Associate Professor at the University of Vaasa, Finland
University of Vaasa || Finland || 5,251 Students and 468 Personnel
University of Vaasa: Internationally impactful science university
Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your research project?
My name is Dr. Ahm Shamsuzzoha. I am an Associate Professor (Tenure track), Industrial Systems Analytics, Digital Economy Research Platform, University of Vaasa, Finland. I am researching green and sustainable innovation, digitalised supply chains, and mobility. My fundamental focus is experimenting and analysing the green and digital ecosystem, fostering environmental friendliness.
Why did you choose to come to UPTEC for your research project?
I came to learn about UPTEC from my colleagues, which is considered a meeting point between researchers and companies. I realised that this institution is a unique place to matchmake between new ideas and their deployments in global markets. Above all, UPTEC is also creating the bridge between the academics at the University of Porto and local enterprises, ultimately enhancing business competition and growth. Moreover, I am already experienced in conducting research collaboration in INESC TEC Porto, which also motivates me to start my secondment at UPTEC and renew my previous research contacts.
What expectations did you have before starting your secondment in Porto?
As an academic, my expectation before starting my secondment in Porto was to be part of a community offering a multidisciplinary innovation ecosystem that creates new business opportunities. I was also curious how companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), develop new ideas/technologies in cooperation with educational institutions, incorporating a win-win situation.
Were your expectations met?
Definitely! At the beginning of the secondment at UPTEC Porto, I expected to meet as many green and digital innovation and business entrepreneurship experts as possible. At the same time, I expected to learn about the working cultures and activities at UPTEC and its neighbouring research institutions in depth. After several meetings with UPTEC, INESC TEC and the University of Porto’s academics, researchers and management staff, I have thoroughly understood these institutions and their various research fields. The knowledge and understanding gained from these meetings in Porto will undoubtedly contribute towards building my professional networks that will support my wishes to start and maintain successful collaborations in the future.
Which connections to stakeholders in the Porto ecosystem could be made?
During my secondment period, I met and discussed with several academics in the Porto ecosystem, such as the University of Porto, INEGI and INESC TEC. These connections in the Porto ecosystem will foster my research one step further. The theoretical and practical experiences I have achieved from this secondment will undoubtedly bring added value to the Finnish and Portuguese business ecosystem, too.
What aspects of your secondment in Porto did you especially enjoy?
In addition to the possible research collaboration between the Finnish and Portuguese ecosystems, I enjoyed the warm behaviours of the Portuguese in general. I noticed that the Portuguese are much more welcoming and helpful, which touches my heart! In addition to the local people, I enjoyed Portugal’s weather, culture and nature. Moreover, I visited several interesting places in Portugal during my secondment period, positively impacting my body and soul!
How will your project continue after your time here in Porto?
My research theme will be enriched further by maintaining continuous communication and collaboration between the University of Vaasa in Finland and institutions within the Porto ecosystem. I plan to apply for local and European-level research projects, where research institutions and companies from Finland and Portugal can participate for mutual benefits. I am also considering future visits to Porto and other places in Portugal to maintain our successful collaborative activities.
