Kaushik Gala is a PhD candidate specializing in management and entrepreneurship. Prior to joining Iowa State University, Gala received his MBA from the University of Texas, Austin, and his master of science in electrical engineering from the University of Minnesota. Gala has over 15 years of industry experience ranging from technology commercialization and patent licensing to business development, marketing, and sales. He has worked in the semiconductor, software, and supply chain automation industries.
Q: Why did you decide to get a PhD in Management and Entrepreneurship?
After working as an engineer and a business development professional, I became interested in management and entrepreneurship research. As I grew into leadership roles, I realized the importance of evidence-based insights for management practice. This led me to pursue a PhD and a career in academia, where I hope to conduct high-quality research that helps practitioners, policymakers, educators, and researchers.
Q: How did you choose the Ivy College of Business? Please share any specific points that helped you decide.
I chose the Ivy College of Business for three reasons. First, I wanted to do a PhD in entrepreneurship, which is an option at Ivy. Second, I found faculty members at Ivy whose research areas overlapped with my interests. Third, I had a wonderful experience interacting with Ivy faculty and staff throughout the application process. Together, these were signs of an educational environment and working culture in which I could flourish.
Q: What types of research are you most interested in?
Broadly, I am interested in management and entrepreneurship research. Specifically, I am interested in star performers, i.e., how, when, and why some individuals, teams, and firms perform much better than others. My current research into star performance is focused on entrepreneurs who operate on digital platforms. I am also interested in compiling unconventional datasets and using emerging research methods.
Q: Would you encourage future PhD students to apply at Ivy? Please explain why.
I would absolutely encourage future PhD students to apply to the Ivy College of Business. The college offers a lot of tangible and intangible support for doctoral students. It has excellent faculty who are not only experts in their field but also kind and willing to help students. There are ample opportunities for PhD students at Ivy to develop research skills, become an effective instructor, and engage in service. The college’s placement outcomes are constantly improving as is its reputation for rigorous and relevant research.
Q: What is your dream job after you complete your PhD?
My dream job after completing my PhD at Iowa State University is a tenure-track assistant professor role at a research-intensive (R1) university in the United States.
