1. What do you do?
I am responsible for the research organization, infrastructure and doctoral training, institutional transformation, and capacity building at Riga Stradiņš University.
Before joining the university, I was a deputy state secretary and director of the Higher Education, Science and Innovation Department at the Ministry of Education and Science of Latvia. There, I designed and implemented structural reforms of the research and innovation system.
This included the redesign of core institutions of higher education and science, including rules for institutional and competitive research funding, financing and governance of higher education, integration of higher education and research, and consolidation of publicly funded research institutes.
My professional and research interests focus on organisations, social networks, and scientific human capital.
2. What’s the coolest part of your job?
The coolest part of my job is the opportunities it provides to establish rules that foster a productive and inclusive academic environment allowing researchers to thrive and produce relevant contributions to public value.
3. Why are you passionate about it?
I believe in the power of institutions and public value.
4. Which skills from your IAC degree have helped you be successful in this career?
The most important skills from my IAC Ph.D. degree are related to making sense of information, theorising, and supporting people in their aspirations.
5. What’s your #1 tip for students and alumni interested in your field?
Take an advanced game theory class — it helps in navigation of policy-making environments.
Meet more featured alumni in the School of Public Policy!
