NITIM Summer School 2024, Madeira

A Week of Innovation, Collaboration, and Inspiration in Madeira

The 2024 edition of the NITIM Graduate School took place from June 20th to June 22nd, hosted by UNINOVA on the breathtaking island of Madeira, Portugal, as part of the Digital Transformation Week in Funchal. With its unique format, the school brought together a diverse group of PhD candidates, faculty mentors, and keynote speakers, fostering an environment of academic exchange and meaningful collaboration.

Over the days, the participants took part in intensive feedback sessions, sharing insights and providing constructive advice to help refine each other's PhD projects. This dynamic exchange was enriched by the guidance of experienced faculty from various academic disciplines, creating the perfect opportunity to step out of individual “academic bubbles” and embrace fresh perspectives on research challenges and opportunities.

The program was highlighted by two inspiring keynotes:

• "The Value of NITIM in My & Your PhD Journey" by Nicolai Heinzelmann, who shared his experiences as a former NITIM participant and insights from his research on corporate entrepreneurship.
• "Theory Building: What is the Object That We Build?" by Suzanne Rivard, a distinguished professor from HEC Montreal, who captivated the audience with her expertise in strategic IT management and her reflections on the art of constructing theories in academic research.

Beyond the intensive academic sessions, the school offered opportunities for relaxation and networking. Our local hosts curated an inspiring atmosphere with delicious cuisine, scenic evening excursions, and a diverse cultural program, that provided the participants with inspiring conversations and exchanges in a family atmosphere.

Special thanks go to Christina Ungerer, Erich Heumüller, and Kevin Reuther for their outstanding efforts in organizing this year’s event. Their dedication ensured that the NITIM Graduate School 2024 was not only academically enriching but also an unforgettable experience for all participants.

We look forward to seeing how these ideas and connections will shape the doctoral theses or further research in the upcoming years!