Embarking on the quest for a PhD is a pivotal decision for any scholar. For Professor Zach Lee, the path was clear from his days pursuing a BBA degree at HKBU, when he developed personal and profound bonds with the University and his supervisor. “The supportive and intellectually stimulating environment at HKBU fostered my academic growth and affirmed my decision to further my studies here,” reflected Zach, now a respected Professor of Business Analytics at the notable University of Leicester, ranked among Europe’s top 55 universities.

Once a Mentor, a Lifelong Mentor

Zach’s decision to continue his intellectual pursuit at HKBU was largely influenced by his transformative relationship with his undergraduate dissertation supervisor, Professor Christy Cheung. She is one of the world’s top 2% scientists by Stanford University, who ranks top in Hong Kong and 16th worldwide in the latest Association for Information Systems (AIS) Research Rankings.

“I was grateful for the chance to work closely with Professor Cheung, who inspired me to initiate my research interest in online social networking,” recalled Zach. Professor Cheung’s expertise in IT’s organisational and societal impacts provided Zach with a compass to navigate this complex research domain. “She shaped my research skills and academic aspirations, a big hand to me for achieving my research goals,” Zach said proudly, describing Professor Cheung’s comprehensive support in academic publishing, grant applications, teaching and presentations, and professional development, laying a solid foundation for his flourishing career.

From Inspired Student to Professor

The research knowledge and skills Zach acquired during his PhD studies were pivotal in his recognition by the prestigious AIS Early Career Award* 2021. In addition, he reviewed international journals and conferences and served as an associate editor and a mini-track co-chair for conferences.

*This award recognises individuals who have already made outstanding research, teaching, and/or service contributions in their early stages of careers to the field of information systems.

Zach regarded HKBU’s empowering and nurturing ground as the prime factor contributing to his current career achievements, with his own PhD students, “The three pillars of my achievement – research, teaching, and service – were all significantly developed during my PhD studies at HKBU.”

How a Local University Fosters Global Academic Leaders

HKBU’s commitment to international exposure, robust networking, and a supportive research ecosystem enriched Zach’s academic journey. As the first author, his paper “Understanding massively multiplayer online role‐playing game addiction: A hedonic management perspective” published in the prestigious Information Systems Journal, was derived from his dissertation at HKBU and resonated beyond academia into the gaming industry and policy-making. This novel work offers critical insights into creating balanced gaming experiences and informed regulatory frameworks. Another relevant research focusing on the measurement scale for online gaming addiction was further spotlighted in the APA PsycTests®* database, signifying and extending the practical impact of his research.

*The American Psychological Association (APA) PsycTests®  is a database of psychological tests and measures designed for use with social and behavioural science research.

HKBU’s unique academic environment, particularly within the School of Business which focuses on ethical and sustainable business practices, laid a solid foundation for Zach’s research ambitions. The University’s vibrant community, with its extensive seminars and networking opportunities, offered Zach unparalleled platforms for professional growth.

Collaborative Milestones

“HKBU was instrumental in expanding my global network and fostering lasting friendships with seasoned academics, especially in the field of information systems, dramatically shaped my career path,” Zach described the visiting programmes and international conferences as gateways to collaborations with esteemed researchers like Professor Viswanath Venkatesh and Professor Fred D Davis. Their paper “Cyberslacking in the Workplace: Antecedents and Effects on Job Performance” was featured in the top-tier journal MIS Quarterly, exemplifying the synergy between HKBU’s vibrant research culture and the global academic community.

Zach indeed carved a niche for himself among his peers with his stellar academic journey from HKBU to international acclaim. Yet, he stands among many distinguished HKBU alumni, a testament to HKBU’s unique nurturing of intellectual curiosity, commitment to ethical research, and fostering of global academic leadership.

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