2026-01-16 13:40
The Doctoral School of Management and Organizational Sciences at Neumann János University reached a significant milestone on October 14, 2025: the university's first public doctoral debates took place in one of the university's modern lecture halls in Budapest (1117 Budapest Infopark sétány 1.). The event was of great significance not only for the doctoral school but also for the university as a whole, as it opened a new chapter in the practice of public scientific dialogue and transparent doctoral evaluations.
At the public defenses, two doctoral candidates, Gábor Vajda and Helga Sárközy, presented the results of their multi-year research work. Both theses were rated 100% by the review committee, which is a rare and particularly commendable achievement in doctoral training. The event was attended by lecturers, researchers, doctoral students, and representatives from the economic and technological spheres, demonstrating interest in interdisciplinary and practice-oriented research.
Gábor Vajda's research revealed new possibilities for measuring the performance of digitally supported controlling systems. The aim of the thesis was to develop a methodological framework capable of evaluating controlling functions in a digital corporate environment based on objective criteria. During the presentation, it became clear that the author did not only work from a theoretical approach, but also placed great emphasis on practical applicability. Gábor Vajda: "Digital assessment of controlling system performance and the development of the necessary evaluation methodology."
Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Zoltán Zéman, university professor
The research contributes to the modernization of decision-making processes and also reflects on corporate structures undergoing transformation as a result of digitalization. The committee highlighted the transparency of the thesis's structure and the author's ability to integrate digital tools into systematic thinking.
Helga Sárközy examined the social implications of artificial intelligence applications in finance. Her thesis analyzed the development of consumer trust and awareness in the fintech sector, particularly in relation to the spread of AI-based services. A key element of the research is the paradox of acceptance, i.e., the situation where, in the absence of the experience necessary for technological innovations, the level of trust that would be created through use cannot develop.
Helga Sárközy: "Trust and awareness in the age of artificial intelligence-based financial services."
Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Zoltán Zéman, co-supervisor: Dr. Botond Géza Kálmán
The committee highlighted the timeliness and theoretical depth of the thesis, as well as the author's efforts to place the issues of data security, customer experience, and technological ethics within a common framework. The research is particularly valuable in that it is not merely analytical, but also makes recommendations for the responsible use of technology.
The organization and successful execution of public doctoral debates clearly demonstrates that Neumann János University wishes to be an active and responsible participant in Hungarian academic life. The current event goes beyond the presentation of individual doctoral theses: scientific publicity, openness, and an interdisciplinary approach prove that Neumann János University is capable of operating a modern and relevant scientific workshop. For the university, doctoral training is not merely a means of ensuring the next generation of scholars, but also an opportunity to deepen the culture of research and to ensure that the knowledge generated here is organically linked to economic and social challenges. The 100% ratings are confirmation of this endeavor.
Congratulations to the doctoral candidates!