Researchers
Elena Pessot (University of Sienna)
Seconded from the University of Siena (Italy) to UPTEC (Portugal); and RMIT University (Melbourne, Australia)
Elena’s research interests include the study of strategies, managerial and organizational practices, and supporting tools, in the fields of: Innovation and Technology management, Strategic management, Complexity management & Project management and organisational learning.
Elena's secondment experience:
She was seconded to UPTEC for one month, and here she shares her experience with us:
- If you could provide one piece of advice to anyone thinking about doing a secondment, what would it be?Â
Do it, do it, do it. A secondment abroad is one of the best “breaths of fresh air" for your personal and professional growth!
- What is something new that has been embedded into your approach to your research as a result of your secondment, how has the secondment impacted your research?Â
The secondment allowed me to better understand the ecosystem of an incubator, and how start-ups can grow in it, by considering the dual perspective of UPTEC personnel and the tenant start-ups
- Can you give us an example of a tangible knowledge transfer / exchange that took place during your secondment?Â
The startuppers I interviewed were very interested in the research topic, as my feedback enabled them to reflect upon their businesses, their history and the way they are leveraging UPTEC services and resources.
- What was the most valuable aspect of your secondment?Â
The people and the open environment between the different roles in the UPTEC ecosystem.