Doctoral Thesis

Working Title:
Mission-Oriented Innovation Policy and Spatial Leverage for Innovation and Social-Ecological Transformation in Structurally Disadvantaged Regions of Germany

Supervisors:
Univ.-Prof. Dr. sc. pol. Artem Korzhenevych, IOER and Dresden University of Technology (TUD)

TUD Faculty:
Faculty of Economics  

IOER Research Area:
Transformative Capacities

Abstract:
Mitigation and adaptation to climate change require fundamental systemic transformations encompassing governance, the economy and society. However, the implementation of such measures critically depends on regional capacities that are often lacking in the most vulnerable regions. This PhD project addresses this spatial paradox by examining how mission-oriented innovation policies (MOIP) can drive socio-ecological transformation in structurally disadvantaged regions.
MOIP represents an orchestrated, targeted policy approach mobilising public and private actors towards measurable, time-bound objectives addressing complex societal challenges. While gaining global traction, their spatial dimensions and leverage mechanisms in peripheral regions remain under-explored. Drawing on MOIP research, regional innovation system theory, systemic innovation theories and multi-level governance approaches, this project examines how technological, social and institutional innovations interact to enable systemic change.
The research investigates three central questions: which barriers hinder socio-ecological transformation in structurally disadvantaged regions and how can MOIP address them; what spatial factors influence MOIP effectiveness; and what actionable recommendations can inform equitable, mission-driven regional policies. The theoretical framework utilises a synthesis of methodologies, incorporating MOIP analysis, leverage point theory for the identification of high-impact interventions, and spatial innovation theory for the examination of how infrastructure, networks, and governance structures mediate transformation effectiveness.
The PhD project employs a mixed-methods case study design to analyse transformative processes in a former German coal-mining area, with international comparisons drawn to UK regions such as the Scottish Highlands. Qualitative methods include semi-structured interviews, participant observation, document analysis and system mapping workshops. Quantitative analysis draws on a range of spatial innovation indicators, including patent registrations, R&D investments, green-sector demographics and network metrics. 
The PhD thesis aims to develop spatially explicit leverage point analyses that will inform equitable, place-based MOIP design. In doing so, it will advance theory through integrating regional innovation systems, transformation studies and spatial innovation perspectives.

Education:

Since 04/2026
Doctoral candidate at the Dresden Leibniz Graduate School (DLGS)

10/2021-06/2024
Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
Academic Degree: Master of Arts

10/2017-06/2021
University of Applied Sciences (OTH), Regensburg, Germany
Academic Degree: Bachelor of Arts

Professional Experience:

08/2024-03/2026
PD Beratung der öffentlichen Hand, Hamburg, Germany
Public sector consulting in the field of sustainability, environmental policy, and climate protection

06/2023-04/2024
PD Beratung der öffentlichen Hand, Hamburg, Germany
Working student in the field of sustainability, environmental policy, and climate protection

02/2022-12/2022
Carl von Ossietzky Universität, Oldenburg, Germany
Student research assistant and undergraduate lecturer at the Chair of Ecological Economics

03/2020-19/2021
University of Applied Sciences (OTH), Regensburg, Germany
Student Research Assistant and Tutor for Strategic and International Management