A Conversation with Harini: A First-Year PhD Student Exploring Sustainability and Digital Innovation Within Fashion
We’re excited to introduce Harini, a first-year PhD student at Edinburgh Napier University, whose research explores the linkages of circular economy, sustainable supply chains, and digital innovation – particularly within the fashion industry.
With a passion for teaching, global experience, and a curiosity that’s driven by both academia and real-world challenges, Harini shares what led her to this research path and how she envisions making an impact in the future of sustainability.
What sparked your interest in pursuing a PhD?
“My +journey toward undertaking a PhD wasn’t a sudden decision – it evolved over years of academic and professional experience. After earning a bachelor’s degree and building a career in logistics and supply chain management, I pursued an MBA, hoping to climb further in her industry,” she explains.
But something was still missing: “I felt the MBA wasn’t enough to really move forward in my career,” she reflects. That realisation led her to pursue two more master’s degrees: one in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, and another in International Business and Marketing. It was during this period of intense academic pursuit that the idea of a PhD and a shift toward academia began to form.”
A pivotal moment came while working in Sri Lanka, mentoring an intern. After six months, the intern landed a job at a top company and credited Harini for their success. “That moment sparked something in me. I realised I could make a real difference by teaching.”
Research Focus: Circular Economy and Digital Product Passports
While still in the early stages of defining a specific title, Harini’s research is taking shape around a compelling and current theme: how the fashion industry can contribute to circular economy goals through sustainable supply chain practices and digital innovation. Her particular interest at the moment lies in Digital Product Passports – technologies similar to QR codes, embedded in clothing that can trace product origins, fabric composition, and supply chain steps. This digital traceability, she believes, can help with recycling and reuse at the end of a product’s life cycle. Most of the existing literature focuses on Digital Product Passports from the organisational or policy-making perspective, but Harini sees an important gap: “What about the consumer side? Can these Digital Product Passports help build trust in products, or even encourage more sustainable consumption habits?”
She hopes to explore these consumer-driven questions in her research.
Research Aim
Currently working through her literature review, Harini is focused on identifying a clear research gap, with the aim of understanding how circular economy principles can transform traditional supply chains into more sustainable models – especially through digital technologies like blockchain, IoT, and digital product passports.
Why Edinburgh Napier?
Choosing Edinburgh Napier University was a clear decision. “Edinburgh Napier has the Centre for Business Innovation and Sustainable Solutions, which I found really inspiring,” she says.
The university’s focus on practical impact and forward-thinking research aligned perfectly with Harini’s interests.
Equally important were the people and environment. “The support from supervisors and the business school has been great. Plus, Edinburgh is an ideal city for balancing academic life with personal well-being.”
Best Advice Received During the PhD Journey
“Keep going. Keep breathing.” A simple yet powerful message Harini received from her director of studies.
“When things get hard – and they do – it reminds me that if we stop, we fail. But if we keep going, we’ll eventually find the way through,” she explains. For her, it’s advice that goes beyond research; it applies to all aspects of life.
Unwinding Through Travel and Culinary Adventures
Outside of academia, Harini is an avid traveller and self-described foodie. She’s visited more than 15 countries, immersing herself in different cultures and cuisines. “Whenever I travel, I love exploring local dishes and then trying to recreate them when I get home,” she says.
One recent favourite? A hearty Icelandic fish stew served with mashed potatoes and butter. She also fondly remembers Malaysia’s sambal dishes, which she now seeks out at any Asian restaurant. “I always ask for a side of sambal – it goes with everything!”
Though she hasn’t warmed up to haggis or black pudding yet, she’s fully embraced the Scottish love for fish and chips.
In Conclusion
Harini is at the beginning of a research journey that promises to explore practical and impactful solutions for sustainability in fashion. With a strong academic foundation, a global perspective, and a deep commitment to education, she’s well-positioned to contribute meaningful insights to the field of circular economy and digital innovation. Her passion for teaching, research, and real-world change reflects a future-focused mindset – one that could shape the way we think about sustainable fashion for years to come.
