What’s your name and what is your role?
My name is Lucien von Schomberg, and I'm a Lecturer in Creativity & Innovation at the Business School, working within the school of Business, Operations and Strategy (BOS).
What does your role involve?
As a lecturer, I have a diverse set of responsibilities that involve conducting research, providing education, and handling managerial and administrative duties. Among others, my research involves writing and publishing journal articles, presenting my work at conferences, and participating in international research projects, while also generating new project ideas and securing funding for them. These projects span from topics on responsible innovation, circular economy, philosophy and football. I also serve as an editorial board member and reviewer of several academic journals and enjoy the opportunity to host special issues as guest editor. In addition to my research contributions, I take an active role in delivering education. This includes designing and leading course modules, teaching, personal tutoring, external examining, and marking assignments (though I hope to see AI assist me in this aspect of my role in the near future). Finally, I participate in several committees and initiatives both within and outside the University, contribute to recruitment processes, and stay current in the field through ongoing professional development.
How have you found working at the Greenwich Business School?
Working at GBS has been a fantastic experience so far. I've found it to be a place full of opportunities, freedom and trust. I've been lucky to work with amazing colleagues who foster a fun and inclusive environment, creating memorable moments in and outside the office. I'd like to extend my gratitude to my colleagues at BOS for shaping this culture of positivity. The inspirational campus located in a vibrant city rounds out my amazing experience at GBS.
What’s the most exciting part of your job?
I love delivering lectures and having the opportunity to discuss ideas, both old and new, in a way that is engaging and accessible to a diverse range of learners. I also enjoy experimenting with innovative teaching methods, such as incorporating drama performance into my teaching, to make the material more dynamic and memorable for students. Finally, I get to engage in meaningful research and travel across the globe for field trips and conferences, meeting new people and experiencing new cultures while discovering amazing places along the way.
What’s your most-used productivity hack? (or any other hack)
To combat my unfortunate weakness of multitasking, I've adopted a strategy I like to call "productivity sprints". This involves focusing solely on one task for a set amount of time, prioritizing the intensity in which I work while striving to deliver quality over quantity. To eliminate distractions during these sprints, I make use of "Do Not Disturb" mode on my phone, silencing any disruptive notifications.
Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies?
I’m a football fanatic with years of experience in playing and coaching at various levels. Since moving to London, I’ve also been reviving my interest in acting through taking several acting courses at the London City Academy.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Professional football player.
If you could have any three people over for dinner, past and present, who would you invite?
Football legend and visionary Johan Cruyff to lead us in a game of table football while analysing its spatial-temporal limitations over appetisers.
Political philosopher Hannah Arendt to inspire us with her thought-provoking ideas and reflect on our world’s future over the main course.
Denzel Washington to lighten up the mood and maybe even recite some lines from his famous movies over dessert.