Research
Through interdisciplinary inquiry and engaged scholarship, we work to influence policy, practice, and pedagogy, advancing a vision of business that is innovative, economically viable, and socially and environmentally responsible.
Our research combines qualitative and quantitative methods, with expertise in creative and inclusive approaches that challenge conventional thinking.
The department is home to two leading centres that drive interdisciplinary research and impact. The Centre for Society, Nature and Organisations (SNO) brings together scholars exploring the transformative role of organisations in advancing social and environmental justice. The Haydn Green Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship leads the University of Nottingham’s efforts to foster a vibrant culture of entrepreneurship and innovation.
Priority research themes
Our department’s research is driven by three core themes, each reflecting our commitment to building a more just, inclusive, and sustainable world through business:
- Business ethics and sustainability
- Inclusive entrepreneurship
- Sustainable innovation and international business
Together, these themes foster interdisciplinary collaboration, shape impactful teaching and practice, and cultivate a research culture that challenges norms and inspires meaningful change.
Business ethics and sustainability
This research theme explores how business can contribute to fairer, more inclusive, and sustainable futures. We focus on the ethical impact of business practices on society and the environment and how imagination and action can lead to ethical innovation and real-world impact. It supports a vision of business that is both economically successful and socially and environmentally responsible.
We explore how businesses engage with human rights, social and environmental justice, and biodiversity. We also address systemic issues like market exclusion, health inequalities, and the marginalisation of vulnerable groups.
Our work spans diverse contexts, from sustainable sourcing and volunteering to ethical leadership, consumer ethics, health inequalities, workers’ rights and the fight against modern slavery.
Inclusive entrepreneurship
This theme explores how entrepreneurship can drive inclusive growth, sustainable innovation, and social change. Our work highlights the influence of gender upon entrepreneurial activity, challenging dominant narratives and advocating for more inclusive business ecosystems.
We focus on the dynamics of small business management, digital entrepreneurship, and technology-led ventures. Our research explores how entrepreneurs navigate challenges and opportunities in a rapidly changing landscape and how government policies and support systems impact their success.
From entrepreneurship education and academic entrepreneurship to university-industry technology transfer, we also investigate how knowledge, networks, and institutions enable or constrain entrepreneurial potential.
Sustainable innovation and international business
This research theme investigates the strategies, structures, and systems that enable enterprises to innovate responsibly and compete internationally. We explore how innovation drives success in both new and established ventures, and how government and business support can help it thrive.
Our research includes rural enterprise and social innovation, with unique projects such as using edible insects for food and feed.
We also study business model innovation, the strategies of emerging market firms, and how international business and innovation intersect, especially through foreign direct investment (FDI) in and out of emerging economies.
PhD students
We are proud to host a thriving community of PhD researchers who play a vital role in shaping our department’s academic life. Working across the department’s priority themes, our doctoral students contribute to cutting-edge and impactful research.
Our department is driven by a shared ambition to challenge mainstream business approaches and re-imagine how organisations can contribute to a fairer, more sustainable present and future. Through critical, engaged research, we foster a vibrant academic community committed to meaningful change.
