📌 Key facts
- What: This thesis investigates the value and impact of AI upskilling/training initiatives in organizations, focusing on how such programs drive organizational capabilities (e.g., AI literarcy) or may lead to inefficient use of time and resources
- When: Start anytime. Applications are open!
- How to apply: Send your CV, transcript of records, and a short statement of research interest (details below)
- 📌 Key facts
- 💡 Background
- 🦾Who We Are
- 🎯 Topics of Interest and Potential Outcomes
- 🎓 Profile
- 📝 How to Apply
💡 Background
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming a central technology across industries, with companies investing heavily in AI tools and the competency development of their workforce. AI upskilling—the training of employees to effectively interact with AI technologies—is rapidly gaining attention as a strategic lever for organizational transformation.
However, the tangible benefits of these initiatives are difficult to measure. While AI investments often have clear KPIs, many organizations struggle to link upskilling efforts directly to productivity or business success, raising questions about their actual effectiveness versus time and resource consumption.
🦾Who We Are
I am a PhD student and Senior Consultant at McKinsey & Company. My research interest lies broadly in the human dimensions of AI, including its adoption, effective use, and its impact on workplace dynamics. I have an educational background in Business and Information Systems Management.
As Chair for Strategy and Organization we are focused on research with impact. This means we do not want to repeat old ideas and base our research solely on the research people did 10 years ago. Instead, we currently research topics that will shape the future such as Quantum/Deep Tech, (Generative) Artifical Intelligence, Digital Transformation and Business Model Innovation, Diversity, Education Technology and Performance Management, Leadership, and Teams. We are always early in noticing trends, technologies, strategies, and organisations that shape the future, which has its ups and downs.
🎯 Topics of Interest and Potential Outcomes
- Impact of AI upskilling on AI literacy, productivity, and employee empowerment
- Challenges and success factors in the implementation of AI upskilling programs
- Measurement approaches for outcomes beyond traditional KPIs (e.g., cultural change, innovation)
Potential outcomes:
- Systematic literature review
- Meta-analysis
- Conceptual model development
- Experimental design and field studies
🎓 Profile
- Strong interest in AI, digital transformation, and organizational development
- Reliable, structured, and self-driven working style
- Strong academic record and analytical mindset
📝 How to Apply
If you are interested, please contact Lisa-Maria Schober by submitting your CV, grade report, preferred starting date & short motivation statement. Please also indicate which kind of thesis (= outcome) you are interested in.