Blockchain adoption and its implications on Supply Chain Performance

Overview:
Companies are facing difficulties in tracking products and getting information across multi-tiered global supply chains. For example, the 2013 Horse meat scandal revealed a major breakdown in the traceability of the food supply chain. This scandal had negative reputational and financial implications to retailers, such as Tesco, Lidl, and Aldi. Blockchain technology promises to manage complex international supply chains and improve supply chain transparency and visibility.
Most Blockchain deployments are still in the experimental stage; thus, there is a great need for understanding the important factors that influence Blockchain adoption in supply chain. Few studies have addressed the adoption of Blockchain from an organisational perspective in supply chains. There is no study that has conducted a holistic evaluation of the direct and indirect effects of the determinants on Blockchain adoption and its implications on supply chain performance.

Person specification
The successful candidate will preferably have an excellent first degree (good 2:1 or above); excellent relevant Master’s degree (Distinction) an advantage in the relevant subjects (i.e. Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Business Management, and Industrial & Systems Engineering). Applicants should have excellent English language skills, and satisfy the BCU PGR Admission requirements, i.e. valid English Language qualification, such as International English Language Test System (Academic IELTS) or equivalent, with an overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0. Experience in the area of operations, supply chain management and Blockchain would be advantageous, but not essential.

How to apply
Applications should also be accompanied by a research proposal statement (an original proposal in not required, candidates should take this opportunity to show how their knowledge and experience will benefit the project by exploring briefly the relevant literature/ studies).
Details of how to submit your application and the necessary supporting documents can be found here: https://www.bcu.ac.uk/research/our-phds/how-to-apply/application-process.

Academic supervisors
Dr Dimitra Kalaitzi, Lecturer in Logistics and Operations Management
Professor Ilias Oraifige, Head of Centre of Engineering
Contact information
For formal enquiries about this project contact Dr Dimitra Kalaitzi by email at dimitra.kalaitzi@bcu.ac.uk
If you require further information about the application process please contact Bernadette Allen from the Doctoral College by email at Bernadette.allen@bcu.ac.uk