Doctoral Candidate

Name: Alexandros Eleftheriadis

email: a.eleftheriadis@vu.nl

Research Project: Blockchain for responsible business I: planet (DC-6)

Biography

Alexandros Eleftheriadis is a PhD candidate at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, researching how businesses can adopt more sustainable practices using blockchain technology. His academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in Finance and Accounting from the University of Macedonia, a master’s in Digital Marketing and Social Media from the University of Sheffield, and a second master’s in Networks & Complexity from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Alexandros’ research focuses on exploring blockchain not just as a tool but as a mindset for enabling sustainable behavior toward the environment. He presented his work at the AOM Annual Meeting 2020 and is actively involved in the DIEM project, collaborating with experts to explore the managerial, economic, and societal implications of Distributed Ledger Technology.

Motivation for the PhD

Alexandros chose to pursue a PhD because of his deep interest in exploring how emerging technologies like blockchain can drive positive change, especially in sustainability. He believes that when society engages with new technologies with full awareness, they can become powerful tools for creating a better existence on this planet. Without this consciousness, however, these technologies risk becoming instruments of manipulation, failing to reach their full potential in benefiting the environment. His academic journey has intensified his fascination with the intersection of technology, business, and societal impact. A PhD enables him to delve deeper into this intersection, contribute to meaningful research, and develop practical solutions.

Why DIEM

Alexandros was especially drawn to the DIEM consortium because it brings together people from different fields—academia, government, and industry—to explore how Distributed Ledger Technology can genuinely make a difference in promoting sustainable and responsible business practices. He has always believed that real change happens when diverse minds come together, and DIEM’s collaborative approach aligns perfectly with that belief. What really attracted him was the consortium’s focus on turning research into practical, real-world solutions, which is exactly what he aims to do with his work. It felt like the right place to grow his ideas and make a meaningful impact.

Doctoral Candidate Journey & Lessons Learned

Defend and Question Ideas: Alexandros has learned the importance of defending his ideas with confidence while also remaining open to questioning them, which has strengthened his research and critical thinking.

Embrace Uncertainty: He has realized there is no single “right way” of doing things. This understanding has helped him navigate the complexities of research with greater flexibility and openness.

Personal Interests & Fun Fact

Personal Interests
Alexandros’ greatest passion in life is writing and producing music—it’s the one thing that makes him completely lose track of time and space. He is also reading everything he can on spirituality and psychology. Lately, he has found comfort in cooking, experimenting with different recipes and flavors.

Fun Fact
In his 20s, Alexandros nearly ditched his bachelor’s degree to pursue music full-time. Now here he is doing a PhD.