Membership

Doctoral Consortium​

About This Program

The IFERA 2026 Doctoral Consortium is a highly interactive developmental experience designed for doctoral students and early-career scholars who aspire to build a meaningful and impactful research journey in the family business field.

In line with IFERA 2026’s focus on custody of legacy, the consortium invites participants to join a vibrant scholarly community where ideas are exchanged openly and identities as researchers are strengthened. The program is open to all scholars interested in entering the family business domain, specifically doctoral candidates at more advanced stages of their studies and researchers newly transitioning into the field.

Participants will have the opportunity to:

  • Engage with leading family business scholars through introductory and thematic sessions.

  • Present and discuss their ongoing research in a supportive environment.

  • Receive in-depth, constructive feedback from experienced faculty facilitators.

  • Build meaningful connections with peers who share a commitment to advancing family business research.

The Doctoral Consortium creates a space for intellectual growth, academic socialization, and collective belonging. It aims not only to strengthen participants’ research skills but also to cultivate a sense of community that extends well beyond the conference. We look forward to welcoming you!

The Doctoral Consortium will take place the day before the start of the 2026 Annual Conference:

Date: June 9th, 2026  
Time: 8.00 – 17 PM  

Submissions for the Doctoral Consortium should include:

  1. The Research Proposal (minimum 750 – maximum 1000 words) exploring either one specific study or the whole dissertation, including goals of the research, theoretical background, methodology, findings and expected contributions. You can use this TEMPLATE.
  2. Your CV, 
  3. A motivation letter reflecting your current interest and capabilities in family business research (please include your university affiliation)
  4. Letter of recommendation from your dissertation supervisor (if already determined) or a faculty member who knows you and your research interests.

PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR PROPOSAL AT: IFERA2026 Ex Ordo

Target
Anyone who wishes an introduction to family business research. Special focus on late stage PhD students.
Content
Breakout sessions with senior scholars to discuss the research proposal
Developmental workshops on topics relevant to the doctoral journey
Admissions
Acceptance based on submitted research proposal.
Fee
Included in the Annual Conference ticket but requires separate submission.
Deadline
February 1, 2026.

Sessions 

Content 

Speakers 

Duration 

Timing 

Morning

COFFEE & REGISTRATIONS

 

30 min

8.00-8.30

Opening 

RDP team

15 min

8.30- 8.45

Ice Breaking Session

Students

30 min 

8.45-9.15

From context to contribution: a practical guide

Peter Jaskiewicz, Marleen Dieleman, Jim Combs, Torsten Pieper, Alfredo De Massis, Emanuela Rondi

60 min

9.15-10.15

Coffee break 

15 min

10.15-10.30

How to write punchy introductions?

Peter Jaskiewicz, Marleen Dieleman, Jim Combs, Torsten Pieper, Alfredo De Massis, Emanuela Rondi

60 min

10.30-11.30

 

Round tables:
Becoming a Researcher in Family Business

Moderators and students

60 min 

11.30-12.30

Lunch 

60 mins

12.30 – 13.30

Afternoon 

Meet & Connect: Building your Doctoral Network

Students

30 mins

13.30–14.00

Practical insights into doing research and getting it published

Margarethe F. Wiersema

60 min 

14.00 – 15.00

Wrap Up Session

RDP Team

5 min

15.00 – 15.05

Coffee break 

15 min 

15.05 – 15.20

Connect with your Mentor

Mentors and students

10 min

15.20 – 15.30

Breakout sessions

Mentors and students

90 min 

15.30 – 17

Take the next step towards your future. Submit your application now!
Enroll now

Nome Cognome

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