Researcher Stories: Building a Global Research Career at Huddersfield
Solomon Jeresa
PhD in Business and Management Studies
Hi, my name is Solomon and I'm from Nigeria. I'm currently studying for PhD in Business and Management Studies. My research explores the Relationship Between Dynamic Capabilities, Proactive Environmental Strategy and Micro, Small, and Medium Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) Performance in Nigeria.
Why I chose to study in the UK
I had always loved the UK whilst growing up and dreamed of living here someday. The two main reasons why I chose to study in the UK was:
- English is a global language, which makes communication, learning and professional development much easier.
- The UK is one of the most influential countries in the world, particularly in education, research and innovation.
Studying here has significantly increased my exposure, confidence and professional influence during my time as a postgraduate researcher. Beyond academics, the UK also offers a safe, peaceful and beautiful environment in which to study and build a future.
Why I chose the University of Huddersfield
I chose the University of Huddersfield because of its strong reputation for teaching and research, particularly within Business and Management Studies, where I am currently pursuing my PhD.
In the 2023 QS World University Rankings by Subject, the University was recognised as one the world’s top universities in 11 subject areas, including Business and Management Studies. Knowing this gave me confidence that I would be studying at an institution committed to academic excellence and impactful research.
The University's reputation was certainly important, but what really stood out to me were the positive stories I heard about its supportive culture, student-centred approach and vibrant international community.
I was attracted by the University's modern facilities and excellent learning environment, but it was the sense of community that convinced me this was the right place for me. Knowing that students from different nationalities are welcomed, supported and encouraged to succeed made me feel that Huddersfield would be somewhere I could grow academically, professionally and personally.
My research
My research is situated within the context of Micro, Small, and Medium Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in a developing country, using firms in Nigeria as the empirical setting. In this context, firms often face significant resource constraints that make the simultaneous pursuit of environmental sustainability and financial performance challenging, potentially resulting in trade-offs, particularly for resource limited MSMEs.
Against this backdrop, the study examines how dynamic capabilities and proactive environmental strategies influence the environmental sustainability and financial performance of MSMEs. It also investigates how these capabilities are developed at the micro level to support firms' sustainability performance.
Furthermore, the research extends the existing literature by exploring alternative strategic configuration pathways through which firms can achieve sustainability without compromising either environmental or financial performance.
Settling into life in Huddersfield
One of the most important factors in helping me settle into life in Huddersfield was the support I received from the University's Careers and Employability Service.
Before coming to the UK, I had accumulated more than eight years of university-level teaching experience at Veritas University Abuja and was keen to continue teaching while pursuing my PhD.
During a careers appointment, I discussed my background and ambitions with the team. They recommended a number of opportunities at universities across the region and encouraged me to apply for suitable roles.
Shortly afterwards, I successfully secured a lecturer position at Arden University which was one of the universities they suggested. I am still happily teaching there today since 2024.
This support made a huge difference to my transition into life in the UK and helped me continue developing my academic career alongside my doctoral studies.
My experience as an international student
My experience as an international PhD student has been truly exceptional. Securing a fully funded, highly competitive international PhD research scholarship at the University of Huddersfield, from Nigeria marked a defining moment in my academic journey. I recognised it as a once in a lifetime opportunity to advance my research expertise, contribute to impactful scholarship, and build a global academic career.
One of the most valuable aspects of my journey has been the opportunity to build strong professional networks and collaborate with academics from both within and outside the UK. These experiences have resulted in 4 research publications, including work published in a highly regarded ABS 3-Star journal.
Alongside this, I have been fortunate to receive recognition for my research through a number of local and international awards. These include a Conference Best Abstract Award at the University of Greater Manchester, a European Travel Grant and a University of Huddersfield research support grant.
These opportunities have had a significant impact on my academic development and future career prospects. Looking back, I can confidently say that my experience as an international student has been transformational.
My advice to other international students
Stay focused and reach out for help because the University provides a highly supportive environment for students, while Huddersfield itself offers an affordable cost of living and an excellent location within the North of England.
The town sits conveniently between Manchester and Leeds, both of which can be reached quickly by train. This makes Huddersfield an excellent place to study, build professional networks and explore other major UK cities while enjoying a peaceful and student-friendly environment.
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