Doctoral Candidate

Name: Julia Staszczak

Research Project: Differences in the Dissemination of Digitized & Digitalized Innovations (DC-7)

Biography

Julia Staszczak is a Doctoral Candidate (DC) in Information Systems at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. She holds an MSc in Management, with a specialization in Business Analytics, from the University of Warsaw and spent a year studying International Business in France. Julia began her career at a startup, advancing to Project Leader, where she developed an educational platform that emphasized the real-world implications of blockchain technology. She collaborated closely with seasoned professionals, gaining valuable experience and insights into the industry. Her current research examines the multifaceted dynamics of innovation diffusion, with a particular focus on blockchain assimilation within organizations, amplified by network effects. Julia is also deeply interested in the balance between individual autonomy and collective security in the development of digital trust ecosystems, specifically through advancements in SSI and SBTs. Additionally, her interests extend to CBDCs and their potential to enhance financial inclusion while addressing privacy and surveillance concerns.

Motivation for the PhD

Julia’s curiosity about blockchain and passion for leveraging its potential were ignited during her time at a startup, where she collaborated within an Innovation Hub alongside forward-thinking innovators. This experience allowed her to engage with government representatives, innovation leaders at top banks, and financial supervision officials. Participating in debates, workshops, and conferences with like-minded professionals fueled her desire to further immerse herself in academia, deepening her expertise and contributing to advancing the field.

Why DIEM

DIEM presented an exceptional opportunity by fostering a holistic environment for discussing blockchain and other emerging technologies, uniting scholars, industry experts, and government officials to harness blockchain’s potential and address the risks posed by its misuse. This collaborative approach aligns perfectly with Julia’s goals of translating research into practical, real-world solutions.

Doctoral Candidate Journey & Lessons Learned

Seize Opportunities: Julia has learned to seize every opportunity to present her work, as each instance is a chance for growth, sharpening her communication skills, and clearly articulating what matters to her.

Seek Help and Avoid Perfectionism: It’s normal to feel stuck, but she has learned not to hesitate to reach out for help and to avoid perfectionism, which often hinders progress.

Flexibility: There’s no single right way to do things. Flexibility is key; as one of her supervisors said, “It doesn’t get easier, you just get better.”

Personal Interests & Fun Fact

Personal Interests
Julia is passionate about marine and wildlife conservation, oceanology, and is fascinated by robotic developments for deep-sea exploration. In her free time, she loves playing tennis, diving into art history, learning about the universe, and being out in nature.

Fun Fact
Julia dreamed of becoming a wreck diver, but she has an irrational fear of buoys!