Hi Eudora, can you tell us a little about your PhD and what first drew you to explore the relationship between events and artificial intelligence?

My PhD examined how artificial intelligence is reshaping professional practice within the events industry, using stakeholder theory as a lens to understand these changes. I explored how event professionals perceive, adopt, and negotiate AI-driven technologies, and what this means for creativity, ethics, decision-making, and professional identity.

I was drawn to this topic because I could see AI beginning to influence many aspects of event planning and management, yet there was very little research capturing the perspectives of those working within the industry. Having built my own career in events, I was interested not only in the technological possibilities but also in the human dimensions of AI adoption. I wanted to understand how professionals were navigating this period of rapid change and what it might mean for the future of the sector. The combination of a fast-evolving technology and a people-centred industry made it a fascinating and timely area of study.

Artificial intelligence developed rapidly throughout your doctoral studies. How did that shape your research journey, and what challenges or opportunities did it create along the way?

The pace of AI development was both one of the greatest challenges and one of the most exciting aspects of my research. When I began my PhD, many of the tools that are now widely used either did not exist or were in their infancy. This meant I was constantly engaging with a shifting technological landscape.

While this created challenges in keeping the research current, it also offered a unique opportunity to capture professional perspectives during a moment of significant transformation. It reinforced the importance of adaptability as a researcher and encouraged me to think critically about how emerging technologies influence professional practice. Ultimately, the experience taught me that research is not only about finding answers but also about responding thoughtfully to evolving realities.

What attracted you to Leeds Beckett for your PhD, and what have been some of the defining moments of your time here?

I was drawn to Leeds Beckett University because of its strong reputation in events, tourism, and hospitality research, and its commitment to industry-engaged research. The opportunity to undertake research that could contribute both academically and practically to the events sector was especially important to me.

A defining moment of my time here was completing my viva, the culmination of years of work and an opportunity to discuss and defend my research in depth. Another highlight was seeing how my findings could contribute to wider conversations about technology, innovation, and the future of professional practice. Presenting my work, engaging with fellow researchers, and receiving constructive feedback throughout the process all played a significant role in shaping my development as a scholar.

Looking back, what have been the highlights of your PhD journey, and what have you learned about yourself as a researcher?

One of the greatest highlights has been the personal and intellectual growth that accompanied the journey. Completing a PhD requires persistence, resilience, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty, and I have gained a much deeper appreciation for all three.

The process strengthened my confidence in investigating complex issues, engaging critically with diverse perspectives, and contributing original knowledge to my field. I also learned the importance of reflexivity, recognising how my own experiences and professional background shaped the research. Most importantly, I discovered that meaningful research is not only about generating knowledge but about asking questions that matter to people and practice.

What support, relationships or experiences made the biggest difference during your doctoral studies, and what advice would you share with someone just starting their PhD?

The support of my supervisors was invaluable. Their guidance, encouragement, and constructive feedback helped me navigate both the academic and personal challenges that inevitably arise during a PhD. I was also fortunate to have colleagues, fellow researchers, friends, and family who encouraged me throughout the journey.

My advice to new PhD researchers would be to view the process as a marathon rather than a sprint. Progress often comes through small, consistent steps rather than dramatic breakthroughs. Stay open to learning, remain adaptable when challenges arise, and do not hesitate to seek support. Above all, stay connected to the reason you chose your topic; that sense of purpose will sustain you during the more demanding stages of the journey.

Now that you've completed your PhD, how would you like your research and career to develop over the next few years, and what impact do you hope your work will have on the events industry?

In the coming years, I hope to continue developing research at the intersection of artificial intelligence, innovation, and event management. As AI continues to evolve, there is a growing need for research that helps organisations and professionals adopt these technologies responsibly and effectively.

I hope my work contributes to informed decision-making within the events industry by highlighting both the opportunities and the challenges associated with AI adoption. Ultimately, I want to encourage a balanced approach, one that embraces technological innovation while preserving the creativity, human connection, and stakeholder relationships that remain central to successful events. If my research helps professionals navigate this evolving landscape with greater confidence and understanding, I would consider that a meaningful impact.

LBU Research Voices is a blog series that celebrates the experiences, journeys, and expertise of our LBU research community. Through this series, we explore the knowledge our researchers have gained, not just from their work, but from their lived experiences, career paths, and the communities they engage with. By sharing their stories, we hope to inspire learning, reflection, and connection across our LBU research culture.

Explore the full LBU Research Voices series to read more stories from across our LBU research community.