On October 13, 2025, the Institute for Global Public Policy (IGPP) at Fudan University hosted an Academic Advancement Seminar. Professor Bert George from the Department of Public and International Affairs at City University of Hong Kong, and co-editor of Public Management Review, was invited to share his academic experience in a lecture titled “Navigating the Publication Process and Having Impact.” The seminar was hosted by Associate Professor Ziteng Fan of IGPP.

Professor George emphasized that academic research should start with a clear problem awareness. Building on this foundation, researchers can develop frameworks that integrate theoretical value with practical significance. He highlighted that practice-driven theoretical innovation lies at the core of social science and encouraged researchers to construct models from theoretical concepts that are closely aligned with real-world practice. Contributions should be based on a thorough review of existing literature while incorporating dynamic practical insights, ultimately producing theory that can “dialogue with the classics.” He also offered guidance on cultivating a distinct academic identity in international public management research, noting that mature researchers must balance long-term research agendas with emergent opportunities in new fields and ideas. He stressed that a sustainable research career requires neither blind pursuit of hot topics nor neglect of real-world observations.

During the interactive Q&A session, students shared their research areas and experiences with journal publication. Professor George encouraged young scholars to maintain enthusiasm and curiosity, continuously strengthen their research capabilities, and focus on long-term research agendas to produce work with meaningful impact.

The seminar concluded to warm applause, with attendees noting that it offered valuable insights for planning academic careers and navigating the pathways to international publication.