Bernd joined the University of Glasgow Adam Smith Business School in 2023 as a Lecturer in Entrepreneurship. He previously held the same position at the University of Strathclyde and worked at Utrecht University School of Economics. He holds a PhD in Management Science, an MSc in Management of Technology, and a BEng in Mechanical Engineering. Bernd received a Fulbright Scholarship for his graduate studies in the US. His research has been published in leading international journals such as Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, the European Journal of Operational Research, and Foundations and Trends in Entrepreneurship.

The overarching theme of Bernd’s research is studying the dynamics of entrepreneurship and innovation through simple models that can answer complex questions. The first stream addresses entrepreneurial ecosystems and the impact of the regional context on entrepreneurship and vice versa. The second stream extends his doctoral research, focusing on entrepreneurial universities and academic entrepreneurship and their role in (regional) development and society through different mechanisms of external engagement. The third stream studies entrepreneurial strategy and decision-making from a systems thinking perspective, with applications to competencies and skills, networking and resource dynamics, and how entrepreneurial activities are both influenced by and influence society. Across these streams, he uses empirically and theoretically grounded models with the aim of better understanding the mechanisms that give rise to predicted or observed dynamics. This requires methodological innovation through combining different complex system approaches, predominantly system dynamics and agent-based modelling, and triangulating (novel) data sources.

Complementary to his research, Bernd is currently involved in a start-up that aims to use simulations to support entrepreneurs and is also the co-founder and director of the Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Research Network.

Bernd is a member of the Entrepreneurship, Development and Political Economy research cluster. 

Areas of expertise:

• Entrepreneurship, transformational innovation, and commercialisation
• Entrepreneurial ecosystems, societies, and (regional) development
• Entrepreneurial universities, academic engagement, and commercialisation
• Entrepreneurial strategy and decision-making in dynamic environments
• Innovation ecosystems, platforms, competencies, and capabilities
• Learning, collaboration, and information flows in complex social systems
• System dynamics, agent-based modelling, GIS, and networks

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Bernd is interested in supervising research on topics related to his areas of expertise with a particular focus on using approaches like system dynamics and agent-based modelling.

• Schwendtner, Bohdana
  Entrepreneurial Ecosystem: Knowledge Creation, Sharing and Learning

Bernd is passionate about helping others realise their entrepreneurial potential, particularly working with students and graduates from engineering and the sciences. In line with his research, his teaching incorporates system thinking and forming a comprehensive understanding of the complexity of innovation and entrepreneurship in a wider socio-techno-economic context. Bernd has taught a variety of subjects at all levels from undergraduate to graduate and PhD level, including methodological topics such as system dynamics and agent-based modelling as well as a range of topics in the areas of new venture creation, technology commercialisation, innovation management, and entrepreneurial ecosystems.

Course currently taught:

• Entrepreneurial Selling (MGT4093)
• Professional and Entrepreneurial Practice (MGT5068)
• Research Methods: Honours (MGT4018)
• Research Methods: Honours Online (MGT4090)