The Lean PhD

This book fundamentally challenges the way in which PhDs are currently pursued. It applies lean methodologies – which have been embraced by start-ups – to the doctoral research process. It explains how to apply techniques such as the minimal viable product (MVP) approach, rapid prototyping and pivoting to each stage, from choosing a topic to seeking feedback, in order to save time, make the process more efficient and demonstrate impact. Chapters are enriched with insights from PhD researchers, practical guidance on going lean and a wealth of empirical data which supports this new approach to postgraduate research.This inspiring text is a must-read for prospective and current PhD students who wish to accelerate their careers in academia and beyond.

“"This book is an excellent read that proposes a PhD process that is the complete opposite of any PhD process I have supervised. It is refreshing and challenges existing paradigms about how a PhD process should look like. It will be inspiration for any PhD students. If you only adopt 10% of Julian's suggestions, your PhD may be a much more pleasant process." -- Professor Marko Hekkert, Chairman of the Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Utrecht University, The Netherlands "I wish this book was available when I did my PhD some 50 years ago. It is strongly recommended." -- Asit K. Biswas, Visiting Professor, National University of Singapore, Singapore "If I had read this book prior to my PhD, I would have focused a lot more on reaching potentials users of my work beyond the scientific community where it quickly died. Many gold stars from me for this work!" -- George Higgins, Professor Emeritus, Trinity College, United States”

This book is an excellent read that proposes a PhD process that is the complete opposite of any PhD process I have supervised. It is refreshing and challenges existing paradigms about how a PhD process should look like. It will be inspiration for any PhD students. If you only adopt 10% of Julian’s suggestions, your PhD may be a much more pleasant process. Professor Marko Hekkert, Chairman of the Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
I wish this book was available when I did my PhD some 50 years ago. It is strongly recommended. Asit K. Biswas, Visiting Professor, National University of Singapore, Singapore
If I had read this book prior to my PhD, I would have focused a lot more on reaching potentials users of my work beyond the scientific community where it quickly died. Many gold stars from me for this work! George Higgins, Professor Emeritus, Trinity College, United States

Julian Kirchherr is Assistant Professor of Sustainable Business and Innovation Studies at Utrecht University, The Netherlands.

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