Why did you choose Strathclyde for your postgraduate research study?
I have three primary reasons for choosing Strathclyde for my PhD: the supervisors, the achievements of my colleagues, and the reputation of the department.
The incredible support of my supervisors in the process of preparing my proposal and recommendation to apply for my PhD was the first factor that led me to choose Strathclyde.
My colleagues from Kathmandu University, Dr Biwesh Neupane and Dr Santosh Koirala, are alumni of Strathclyde. Their contribution to research and successful academic career are another reason I joined Strathclyde Business School. Finally, the Department of Accounting & Finance’s reputation is outstanding, and it is consistently ranked among the top five departments in the United Kingdom.
Tell us about your research
My research explores green and sustainable finance. Climate change and global warming that are caused by human activities need ample and immediate human action to achieve zero emission (IPCC, 2021). My study helps corporations to reduce their carbon emissions and informs them about their responsibility towards the environment.
My study focuses on the green financing tools such as green bonds and their contribution towards making the world a better place to live in. It also helps policymakers and decision-makers in bringing in better strategies for sustainability.
My research area is growing, and it contributes to supporting the Paris Agreement on climate change and the United Nations’ sustainable goals. I feel excited and energised to contribute to an area the entire world is heading towards. As there are limited and ongoing studies, contributing to solving the burning issues and helping the environment makes me satisfied with my research.
What’s the Strathclyde research community like?
The diversity of the community and the researchers’ enthusiasm are impeccable. I get to learn about various cultures, research areas, methodologies, and ways to contribute.
The department-led seminars, conferences, and workshops offer eye-opening opportunities and challenges to conduct meaningful research.
Support from alumni and research assistants is simply flawless. I vividly remember learning from alum Biwesh Neupane and his friendly suggestions on my scholarly journey. I feel blessed to be a part of this community and look forward to learning and contributing a lot.
What are the Strathclyde facilities like?
There are many facilities such as the highly equipped library, the lavish sports centre, Strath Union, cafeterias, and ample areas for studies.
There are facilities beyond the physical ones; the access to online resources is above par.
I really love the access to the many databases like Refinitiv, Dealogic, Bloomberg, Wharton, and the availability of software such as Stata, MATLAB, MS office and many more. The University has left no stones unturned when it comes to the student facilities.
Tell us about the support from your supervisor and the wider Strathclyde team
The best thing that I can say to the world is that my supervisors are great mentors.
Professors Chandra Thapa and Andrew Marshall are available to help me anytime, whether it be at weekends or during the holidays. At times, I feel that they are contributing more to my research than I am.
Professor Thapa goes above and beyond, and he even makes phone calls to guide me on my mistakes. Their encouragement and continuous support are way above my expectations and I’m extremely glad about it. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to both supervisors. I am also thankful to the Strathclyde team from the department and the entire business school. For instance, Donna and Lorna are always there to help, plus the IT team and all other faculty staff are there for every support need.
Everyone puts on their best to ensure the learning outcomes through the application of innovative tools, techniques, course design, projects, simulations, and activities.
Another great thing at Strathclyde is the funding arrangements. I feel lucky to have received the John Anderson Research Award for my PhD studies. Had I not received the funding, it would have been impossible for me to come to Glasgow from Nepal and manage my living expenses here. There are other awards and many support programs available for aspirants.
What would you like to do after your PhD?
I love the academic world and I will be in the same after my PhD as well.
As I have been in the academic industry for more than a decade, I enjoy every single aspect of it, including the opportunities and challenges. My love for academia is getting deeper and my understanding of a professor’s role is getting clearer. I would like to contribute as a researcher for a long time.
What is it like being a student in Glasgow?
Glasgow is a vibrant city. I love the amenities, the easy access, and the facilities. As I am living here with my spouse and our 12-year-old daughter, I find it the perfect place to be with my family.
It’s a vibrant and busy city, with easy access to all sorts of transportation. The River Clyde, the city’s many museums and galleries such as the Riverside Museum and The Hunterian, as well parks like Glasgow Green and Queens Park are all amazing.
I also love George Square, the Counting House pub, and having coffee with my friends to discuss our studies. I feel that the city of Glasgow keeps smiling and instills smiles in people with its natural beauty and smart arrangement of all the required facilities.
What advice would you give to prospective postgraduate research students?
The more you communicate, the more support you will get from everyone.
I would advise prospective PGR students to develop a habit of reading high-quality research articles and to enjoy taking notes of every single paper that you read. Also, start learning the data management tools and techniques as it will make life easier at the data analysis stage. Once you join, start communicating with your supervisors and discuss your research projects frequently.
If you are thinking of applying, please try to identify your area of interest and look at the potential supervisors’ publications in the area so that you can easily match and prepare your proposal. Best wishes and I look forward to welcoming you!
