Nargiz Hajiyeva: Tips for Building a Successful Research Career

VDU

Nargiz Hajiyeva, a distinguished alumna of the Political Science and Diplomacy Master's programme (2015 - 2017) at Vytautas Magnus University from Azerbaijan, recently shared her inspiring journey during an online discussion titled "Resilience and Optimism of VMU Alumni around the World," held on November 10. The focus of her presentation was "A Journey of Scientific Empowerment: From Lithuania to the World".

Currently, she holds the position of Ph.D., Political Scientist, and serves as the Director of the "Organization of Scientific Activities" Unit. Additionally, she chairs the Women Researchers Council (WRC) and is an Academic Lecturer on Political Leadership and Political Science at Azerbaijan State University of Economics (UNEC). Notably, she is also the Director of the "Empirical Methods" Working Group at the Swiss Political Science Association (SPSA) in Switzerland. Read more here.

Main Insights from Nargiz Hajiyeva's Presentation:

Intriguingly, Nargiz has transformed her academic pursuits into a global venture. Her ability to change her academic prowess into a profitable endeavor is both remarkable and inspiring. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Strategic Scientific Writing:

Nargiz emphasized the importance of writing scientific articles to secure grants, attend summer schools, and participate in international workshops across various countries.

2. Extensive European Exploration:

Her academic journey led her to travel to more than 50 cities in Europe, courtesy of various scholarships. This extensive exposure has undoubtedly enriched her understanding of global political dynamics.

3. Beyond Diplomacy:

Nargiz challenges the conventional notion that studying political science and diplomacy restricts individuals to a diplomatic career. Instead, she advocates for aspiring to be more, such as a political scientist, showcasing the diverse paths available within the field.


During her time as a master's student at VMU, Nargiz embraced the role of a dedicated and enthusiastic learner. Her commitment to academic excellence was further demonstrated when she graduated from the diplomatic program on EU Affairs of the European Academy of Diplomacy with a PZU scholarship in 2016.

Additionally, Nargiz gained valuable practical experience through internships in various research centers and think tanks, funded by the ERASMUS+ traineeship program in 2016 and 2017. She also participated in the Erasmus+ mobility program at Sciences PO, Grenoble, from January to June 2017.


Tips for Building a Successful Research Career


Research Experience:

  • Gain practical research experience through internships, lab positions, or hands-on projects.
  • Strengthen your academic profile by publishing research findings in reputable journals, establishing credibility in your field.

Networking:

  • Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to connect with fellow researchers and professionals.
  • Join professional organizations and online forums to stay updated on the latest research trends and collaborate with peers.

Mentorship and Supervision:

  • Seek out mentors to provide guidance and support throughout your research career.
  • Learn from experienced researchers who can share insights and help navigate challenges effectively.

Grant Writing:

  • Master the art of grant writing to secure funding for your research projects.
  • Successful grant applications not only fund your work but also enhance your standing in the scientific community.

Building a Strong CV:

  • Regularly update your curriculum vitae (CV) with education, research experience, publications, and presentations.
  • Showcase achievements and contributions to demonstrate your expertise effectively.

Effective Communication:

  • Develop strong writing skills for clear and concise research papers, grant proposals, and other documents.
  • Hone oral communication skills for presenting research findings at conferences and to a broader audience.

Collaboration:

  • Collaborate with researchers within and outside your field to broaden perspectives and enhance research capabilities.
  • Engage in interdisciplinary projects to expand your expertise and contribute to diverse research areas.

Staying Informed:

  • Keep abreast of the latest developments in your field by regularly reading scientific literature and attending relevant events.
  • Embrace lifelong learning to adapt to new technologies and methodologies.

Mastering the Scientific Writing Style:

  • Understand the conventions of scientific writing, including clear and precise language, logical structure, and adherence to specific citation styles (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).


Her story encourages students to explore diverse opportunities, embrace global perspectives, and strive for excellence in their chosen fields. Feel free to delve into the main insights provided in this summary of her presentation to glean further inspiration from her remarkable journey.