Knowledge boundary crossing and learning in interdisciplinary industry contexts – Case study of FinTech

Project reference number: GCUL-2022-002

Working at the boundaries of areas of knowledge in the workplace provides challenges as well as providing potential for innovation. Crossing disciplinary borders is described as akin to negotiating different cultures. Know-how developed within disciplines (or also professions, sectors or even departments) can be conceptualised as knowledge cultures which are (re-)formed through language, practice, structures of power and justice, of narratives of identity and tradition’ (Scott & Hofmeyer, 2007). Crossing the boundaries between knowledge cultures’, especially in novel fields that combine traditional disciplines and even sectors, might require developing specific competences to manage such knowledge intersections in an effective manner (Kim-Godwin et al., 2001). Sectors such as FinTech arose in response to the dual pressures of rapid advancement of technology and changing societal needs. Following such a disruptive change, FinTech organisations often struggle to prepare employees to foster the innovation potential afforded by the internal diversity in this field. Can Organisational Learning and training help develop a capacity to deal with knowledge boundary crossing allowing companies to exploit potential opportunities? This question needs further empirical study to address both the challenges and innovation advantages of work at the boundaries of knowledge in these organisations. The project explores the competence challenges of working across various boundaries in the FinTech industry in Philippines and UK, comparing the perspectives in a developed and developing country that have both undergone a great deal of change and growth in this sector.  

How to Apply

This project is available as a 3 years full-time or 6 years part-time PhD study programme with expected start date of 1 May 2023.

Candidates are encouraged to contact the research supervisors for the project before applying.

Candidates are required to submit a Research Proposal.

Applicants should apply for their preferred intake date using the GCU London links via the Application Process page. 

Please send any other enquires regarding your application to: researchapplications@gcu.ac.uk

Funding Notes

Applicants are expected to find external funding sources to cover the tuition fees and living expenses. Alumni and International students new to GCU who are self-funding are eligible for fee discounts.

 Find out more on our Research Scholarships and Studentships webpage.