Class of 2024 PhD Candidates Share Their Research and What’s Next

Across Leeds, PhD candidates are working on ground-breaking research to create a better understanding of the world of business—here’s where they’re headed next.

Taking Account of What’s Next

Jackie Wegner (PhD Acct’24) researched the production and use of information in capital markets for her doctorate. “I am inspired by this research because information is an important and versatile asset in our society,” she says.

Wegner’s time at Leeds has been a blend of studying with Sarah Zechman, Tisone Memorial Fellow and Accounting Professor, and Nathan Marshall, Accounting PhD Program Director, and taking time to enjoy everything Boulder has to offer. “I can’t think of a better place to consume accounting research than in the Rocky Mountains. The accounting faculty at CU Boulder are some of the smartest and kindest individuals I have met.” 

After being cheered on by her husband, family and friends throughout the program, Wegner is now headed to the University of Southern California where she will work as an assistant professor in the accounting department. 

Moving the markets

Sasha Lien (PhD Fnce’24) studied the role of institutions in determining asset prices. “This has important implications not only for the interaction between institutional demand and arbitrage capital,” he said, “but also for our understanding of markets more generally.” 

Lien enjoyed working in the finance department, “specifically, I liked learning how to think about research and causality. This is important for better understanding the world around us.” He shared that the list of people who supported him within the finance department is “too long - I’m working cards for a dozen faculty members who have all had a tremendous impact on my life and my success.” 

Now that his PhD program is completed, Lien will be joining Viribus Fund, an algorithmic hedge fund, as an FTR Derivatives Analyst. 

Taking an environmental stand 

Scott Robinson (PhD Acct’24) focuses on corporations’ non-financial information, specifically environmental disclosures. “I believe corporations are key players in combating climate change,” said Robinson. “Understanding the determinants of corporate environmental disclosure and capital market consequences is increasingly important.” 

Robinson shared that the highlight of his time at Leeds was working with other PhD students and accounting faculty. “The students and faculty at Leeds understand the grind of the program and recognize the importance of being present for one another. And the faculty are so welcoming. It feels like they truly want students to get the most out of the program.” He also enjoyed teaching as a part of the program and celebrated the opportunity to do revision work at a Financial Times 50 journal. 

He also acknowledged that his spouse and three children cheered him on throughout the program and will be joining him as he starts a position as an assistant accounting professor at the University of Oregon.