Research Spotlight: Kristina Potocnik

Can you give a brief summary of your career to date, and the journey that brought you here to us at the University of Edinburgh Business School?

My academic career started when I decided to study psychology at the age of 19. I was unsure about what I wanted to do in my life and I chose psychology because I was intrigued by the subject. As I neared the end of my undergraduate degree, the desire to continue learning led me to pursue a PhD in occupational psychology. I found a fantastic program in Valencia, which was not only academically enriching but also situated in an affordable city at the time. That experience solidified my love for research and academia, ultimately bringing me here to the University of Edinburgh.

If you had to give your ‘elevator pitch’ and explain in layman terms what your research and/or teaching focuses on, how would you answer?

Well, that's a tough question considering I work on a variety of topics. As an occupational psychologist, I'm interested in understanding how people behave in the workplace and why they engage in certain behaviours. I study how individuals achieve great outcomes, both on their own and collaborating with others, especially when they work in challenging situations. In this sense, resilience is a common thread across my various research projects, delving into how individuals and teams can withstand stress and perform well despite challenges and uncertainties. This includes investigating the impact of external demands and uncertainty and complexity on problem-solving and innovating as well as managing age and health-related issues like menopause to protect and maintain performance and well-being. I also teach about these topics in my "Organizing for Effectiveness" class.

With regard to your work, is there anything exciting in the pipelines that you are working on?

I'm currently juggling multiple projects, but the one that excites me the most is my research on healthy ageing. I'm revising two chapters that I wrote a few years ago on healthy ageing at work and retirement practices around the world as well as working on a few papers focused on menopause. So, yes, there's plenty happening in my research world!

What do you enjoy most about your teaching and research? What challenges and excites you across both?

This might sound cheesy, but it's true - I find the students to be the most exciting part of my teaching. Teaching predominantly postgraduate students, especially on our MBA programmes, exposes me to learners with managerial experience from all over the world with diverse backgrounds. Each year, I gain invaluable knowledge and insights from them. As for my research, I truly appreciate the autonomy that I have. I can explore and study whatever piques my interest at any given time.

What do you enjoy most about working at UEBS?

UEBS is part of a research-intensive university in Scotland with great history and reputation. As a woman and an immigrant, I feel that this country offers me plenty of possibilities and opportunities. I'm not only accepted by the broader society but also by the academic community. I can actively participate in decision-making processes and work towards achieving my career goals.

What advice would you give to your younger self, about to leave home and embark upon further education?

Looking back, I wish I had explored more opportunities to study abroad during my undergraduate years. While options were limited at the time, I now realize how enriching the experience of studying abroad can be. So, to my younger self, I would say, "Consider an Erasmus exchange or a semester abroad! Embrace the chance to broaden your horizons and embrace new cultures." It's a fantastic way to grow both academically and personally.

What one book, piece of music and beloved item would you take with you to a Desert Island?

• Music: I would probably take an 80s compilation, which would have to include “Jump for My Love” by the Pointer Sisters, and “Take on Me” by A-Ha.
• Books: I would probably pick something from Isabel Allende or Gabriel Garcia Marquez, who are my favourite authors; I'm thinking of The House of the Spirits and Chronicle of a Death Foretold.
• Beloved item: I would pick something that my mum left me, probably one of her scarves.

If you could invite anyone over for dinner who would it be and why?

One person who comes to mind is Rosa Luxemburg. Her revolutionary spirit and dedication to her cause have always intrigued me. However, I'd love to have a dynamic conversation by inviting both Rosa Luxemburg and Slavoj Žižek to the same table. These brilliant minds would certainly make for an interesting evening of intellectual discourse and maybe a touch of rebellious inspiration!

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

The place I would love to visit is Curaçao, a captivating island with a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty makes it incredibly cool. I'm drawn to its vibrant atmosphere and stunning landscapes. So, yes, Curaçao is definitely on my travel wish list!

Kristina Potocnik

Personal Chair of Organisational Behaviour