Becoming a research-hungry graduate student is an exciting but scary prospect, especially if you are not entirely sure of where to begin and in what direction your research interests lie. How do you know whether or not the supply chain research field is right for you? Are there any opportunities out there specifically for Phd students interested in supply chain? What are the things that you should consider before pursuing a Phd degree in Supply Chain? If you answer yes to any or all of these questions, this blog post is for you! Read on to learn more about pursuing a Phds in Supply Chain, its advantages and disadvantages, and other important considerations to keep in mind before making that decision.
Why pursue a PhD in Supply Chain Management?
The supply chain management field aims to improve the efficiency of the supply chain process, as well as the efficiency of the interaction between stakeholders—or, in other words, to facilitate collaboration and collaboration between all stakeholders involved in the chain. This field is becoming increasingly important, not only because of the impact it has on business operations, but also because of the huge significance it has on the global society. If we look at the impact on the society, we can see that a lack of efficient supply chain management can have some serious consequences such as increased costs and delays, lost sales, and even failure to meet the company’s goals. On top of that, the impacts of an inefficient supply chain management reach far beyond the business and industry sector—it can affect almost every aspect of our everyday life. For example, consider the impact on the government, healthcare, and even education sectors. A major disruption in any of these sectors could have serious consequences for the citizens and the country.
What is supply chain management?
The supply chain is the path through which the goods flow from the initial production until they reach the customer, usually with a delay. This chain includes the production process, the transportation of the goods, and the wholesaler/retailer who places the order with the manufacturer/supplier. The goal of the supply chain is to move the product as efficiently as possible, keeping all the stakeholders involved—including the customer—happy. A supply chain can be illegal but also legal (e.g., a legal supply chain is a chain that includes a legal manufacturer and a legal distributer), but it is important to note that a supply chain is not the same thing as a business. A supply chain is the path that goods take from one entity to another, while a business is the relationship between those entities.
Importance of having a solid research question
The research question you select for your PhD is one of the most important factors that will determine the success of your research, and also the reason why so many students pursue a PhD in Supply Chain, usually after completing their MBA with logistics and supply chain management. If you choose the wrong question to research, you will likely spend your time researching issues that have nothing to do with your real research interests. If you select the right research question, you are much more likely to be able to make a meaningful contribution to the field and you will be able to make a significant impact on the world. It’s important to select a question that you truly find interesting and that you are passionate about. If you do not have a passionate question, it will be extremely difficult to devote the many years required of a research career.
Advantages of pursuing a PhD in Supply Chain
Research-based education:
Flexibility in career options once you get your PhD. Dedication and passion that come with pursuing the supply chain management degree. AIMS’ supply chain diploma program is among the top programs chosen as a prerequisite for the PhD program.
A lot of research experience:
A lot of exposure to cutting-edge research – Being able to pursue a research agenda that you are truly interested in
The chance to develop research skills that are not directly related to your career:
Being exposed to new research areas and gaining insight into future research trends
Other important considerations for pursuing a PhD in Supply Chain
Research funding:
Time required to complete your PhD – Funding options that are available to you while pursuing a PhD.
The type of research you would like to do:
The PhD program you would like to pursue. The PhD program’s reputation and the quality of the instructors
Cost of living:
How easy it is to find a job once you complete your PhD.
How long it takes you to get your first job after completing your PhD:
The education you receive while pursuing a PhD
The degree you receive upon completion of your PhD:
The impact of your research
How to Become a Supply Chain Researcher
There are many ways to become a supply chain researcher, but the best way is usually to start looking for ways to become one now. You will want to shift your attention towards research after you finish your PhD and begin to look for opportunities to get research experience. Your first step will be to research the career paths available to you in supply chain research. There are a number of resources available to aid you in your research. A good place to start is with a search on Google. You can also consult your local university Career Center or search the internet for “supply chain research resources.” From these sources, you will want to create a list of all the different career paths that are available and research each one to see if there is anything you are interested in pursuing.
Conclusion
PhDs in Supply Chain can be an exciting and rewarding career choice. However, pursuing a PhD in this field requires significant time, dedication, and dedication. Therefore, it is important to assess and identify if pursuing a PhD is right for you before you make this decision. If you are committed to doing the research and applying the necessary effort to see it through, then a PhD in Supply Chain can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience that leads to a career in academia, research, or industry.
