As part of our interview series with young scientists, we spoke with Dr. Imtiaz Mostafiz. He is currently working as an Associate Professor in International Business and Strategy at the University of Leicester, UK. Read his interview below:
University of Leicester, United Kingdom
First, please tell us a little about yourself.
I am Md. Imtiaz Mostafiz. I am currently serving as an Associate Professor of International Business and Strategy at the University of Leicester, UK.
In 2024, I received the British Academy’s Global Talent Award (Exceptional Talent). I am the author of several scientific papers published in leading journals in the fields of International Business and Strategy. I am also a member of the British Academy of Management and the Peer Review College of the Economics and Social Research Council – UK Research and Innovation.
Previously, I worked as an Associate Professor at the Greater Manchester Business School, where I served as the Director of the Global Business and Enterprise Center. Additionally, I worked at Sheffield Business School as a Senior Lecturer and Deputy Head of the International Business Subject Group.
What is your research focus?
The primary focus of my research is International Business and Strategy. I conduct research on how small and medium-sized enterprises can enter international markets and succeed there.
I am especially interested in how a company identifies opportunities in new markets, leverages those opportunities for business expansion, and creates a competitive position. I also research how companies use their knowledge and capabilities to innovate and succeed in global markets.
Another important aspect of my research is how entrepreneurs adapt to rapidly changing international environments. I focus particularly on the strategic skills, innovative capabilities, and the risks entrepreneurs need to take to enter new markets. Furthermore, I study how entrepreneurs overcome various unexpected obstacles to expand their businesses.
One major challenge for entrepreneurs is entering new and unfamiliar markets. In one part of my research, I highlight how entrepreneurs find new opportunities on an international scale and use them to scale up their businesses. My research in these areas can be effective and helpful for entrepreneurs.
How do your research activities benefit us?
My research can contribute to economic development in various ways. In particular, it provides important information and strategies for entrepreneurs, businesses, and policymakers to assist them in their operations and decision-making. New entrepreneurs can learn how to enter new markets, manage risks, and adopt innovative strategies to succeed in business from my research. Additionally, small businesses can obtain strategic information to help them build competitive positions in international markets and introduce new products and services. The results of my research are also important for policymakers, as it helps them understand what kind of policies and support are necessary for international business and the development of entrepreneurship. Overall, my research can play an effective role in the expansion of international business and economic development.
What qualities do you think are important for a scientist?
There are several important areas a researcher should focus on to be effective in their research. First and foremost, a spirit of inquiry or curiosity is extremely important. A researcher should always be eager to find answers to new questions and challenge existing knowledge. Creativity and innovative thinking help a researcher discover new ideas and solutions.
Secondly, technical proficiency is very important, as researchers need to stay informed about new technologies and methods and be able to apply them efficiently. Also, objectivity—working based on logic and evidence while restraining personal opinions and emotions—is another critical quality for a researcher.
Third, patience is an essential quality. Research often requires long-term effort and waiting, and it is crucial to persist through failures or unexpected results. The ability to think critically is also extremely important for a researcher. To make the right decisions, they must be able to analyze various theories, data, and outcomes critically.
Additionally, a researcher must be able to accurately communicate and share their research and discoveries with others. All these qualities help researchers succeed in their activities and contribute to society through new discoveries.
Do you have any message for young Bangladeshi students who want to pursue science?
Research is a journey that demands patience and time, where a researcher must learn new things, innovate, and bring about positive change in society. For those interested in research, never lose your curiosity. Try to find answers to new questions and challenge prevailing ideas.
Patience is incredibly important along the research path. Sometimes it can take a long time to achieve results, and failures will inevitably occur, but always try to learn from those failures and move forward. Critical thinking will make your research stronger. If you can use your research to do something for society, that will be your greatest achievement. Do research on topics that can contribute to the development of Bangladesh and use your knowledge for the country’s welfare.
To conduct world-class research, follow the work of top global scientists and strive to continuously improve yourself. Remember, your creativity and innovative thinking can take you and your country to new heights. Work tirelessly, and always believe in yourself. As the scientists and researchers of the future, you are among the main driving forces of the nation’s progress.
Your website, research links, etc. (if any, optional)
https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=pCcKuzIAAAAJ&hl=en
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-md-imtiaz-mostafiz-fhea-89884048
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