PhD Student Week: Rene Maas, Junior Research Fellow in Informatics

On 13 May, the Estonian Doctoral School – a joint initiative of all Estonian universities – celebrates European Doctoral Day. During a social media campaign from 11 to 17 May, doctoral researchers from across Estonia share their experiences, reflecting on the value of doctoral studies and the broader impact of research. Rene Maas, Junior Research Fellow in Informatics shares his thoughts.

Please describe briefly your field of research.

Broadly, my research area contributes to the development of strategic management, with a particular focus on supply chains and sustainability. My aim is to investigate how different actors within the supply chain can better align strategic objectives with operational-level activities, thereby making processes faster and more transparent compared to current practices.

In addition, this could reduce the need to involve external consultants, whose working hours are costly and who first need to be thoroughly familiarized with the company’s specific context. In this way, my work supports ensuring that operational-level activities consistently contribute to the organization’s strategic objectives. In many cases, the link between the strategic and operational levels is weak or missing, which results in activities not being implemented in the most efficient or goal-oriented manner.

What motivated you to pursue doctoral studies?

I decided to pursue a PhD primarily because of my work in the education sector. I work as the programme director for the transport and logistics curriculum at Tallinna Tehnikakõrgkool, and therefore continuing an academic career felt like a natural next step. In addition, I have always had an interest in exploring topics in depth, and a doctoral programme offered an excellent opportunity for that.

I am also motivated by the knowledge that the results of my work can provide real value to others. For example, companies may benefit from a framework that helps ensure day-to-day activities consistently support the achievement of strategic goals and that the organization moves in the desired direction.

What has been the most exciting or unexpected experience during your doctoral studies?

The most unexpected experience has probably been the beginning and the end of the PhD journey. At the start, motivation and enthusiasm are very high – there is a strong feeling of wanting to accomplish a lot quickly. However, reality soon sets in, as several years of consistent work and sustained effort lie ahead. Looking back at the finishing line, it is especially rewarding to realize that these have been meaningful and exciting years.

In terms of more specific experiences, participation in international conferences and doctoral schools has been particularly valuable. These have provided an opportunity to see how other doctoral candidates interpret my research topic, as well as to receive constructive and forward-looking feedback. It has also been inspiring to become familiar with other PhD students’ research topics – even if they differ from mine, they often generate ideas and potential areas for collaboration.

What advice would you give to someone who is currently considering pursuing a PhD in computer science?

Jokingly speaking, I would say: a cool head and a double of yourself. Since the latter does not exist in real life, what remains is to be consistent and to start developing strong time management skills early on.

It is also very important to maintain a good working relationship with your supervisor – this is a collaboration that should be consciously nurtured throughout the entire programme. Based on my experience, the key prerequisites for a successful PhD are genuine interest in the research topic, access to relevant data, and sufficient prior knowledge of the field. If these components are in place, there is really no reason to hesitate for too long – just submit the application!

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The campaign highlights the opportunities offered by doctoral studies in Estonia and showcases diverse career paths in academia and beyond.

European Doctoral Day homepage: https://www.eurodocday.org/

Estonian Doctoral School homepage: https://www.doktorikool.ee/en/

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