Doctoral Candidate

Name: Sakshi Agarwal

email: sakshi.agarwal@alumni.ie.edu

Research Project: Blockchain, smart contracts and the optimal firm vertical scope (DC-4)

Biography

Sakshi Agarwal is currently pursuing a PhD in Management, with a major in Strategy, at IE Business School in Madrid. With a background in architecture, Sakshi holds a bachelor’s degree in the field and worked as an architect for over a year at a design studio in Mumbai, India. This hands-on experience cultivated a strong attention to detail and the ability to balance qualitative and quantitative aspects of projects. Transitioning into the business world, she completed a Master in Management from IE Business School, gaining a well-rounded understanding of business operations. For outstanding academic performance, Sakshi was inducted into the prestigious International Business Honor Society, Beta Gamma Sigma, and was awarded the IE Blue Torch 2023. Her research focuses on the transformative potential of smart contracts, analyzing their impact on firm vertical scope and their role in reshaping business dynamics and fostering industry-wide innovation.

Motivation for the PhD

Sakshi chose to pursue a PhD driven by her desire to contribute to the broader economic and societal landscape through academia, moving beyond the constraints of traditional corporate roles. She views academic research as a powerful avenue for exploring innovative solutions that drive meaningful industry change. Her interest in the transformative potential of blockchain and smart contracts, and their ability to reshape business models and create value, motivated her to delve deeply into these technologies’ strategic implications.

Why DIEM

Sakshi was particularly drawn to the DIEM consortium for its focus on connecting academic research with industry practice, which aligns with her goal of translating research into actionable strategies. The consortium’s collaborative environment, featuring candidates from diverse professional backgrounds, offers a valuable opportunity for her to engage with a range of perspectives and enhance her understanding of technology’s impact across industries. Additionally, DIEM’s commitment to advancing blockchain research and its role in digital transformation resonates strongly with Sakshi’s interests, making it an ideal setting for exploring the strategic potential of emerging technologies.

Doctoral Candidate Journey & Lessons Learned

Interdisciplinary Research: During her DC journey so far, Sakshi has learned the significant value derived from interdisciplinary research, discovering how combining insights from various fields can address complex business challenges effectively.

Collaboration: She has also recognized the importance of collaboration and working closely with peers, which has enhanced her open-thinking and appreciation for varying perspectives.

Resilience and Adaptability: Additionally, Sakshi has learned that research is often a non-linear process, marked by both significant highs and challenging lows, requiring resilience and adaptability.

Personal Interests & Fun Fact

Personal Interests
Outside of her academic work, Sakshi enjoys cooking, particularly exploring cultures through food. She is also passionate about traveling, which allows her to experience diverse landscapes and meet people from various backgrounds.

Fun Fact
Sakshi is the first woman in her entire family lineage to pursue a Master’s degree, let alone a PhD. She once solved a Rubik’s cube in 39 seconds.