Junhyung Byun

BIOGRAPHY

Junhyung (Jun) Byun is delving into the world of social movement scholarship. His primary focus is on understanding the multifaceted impacts of Social Movement Organizations (SMOs). He is keen on exploring their effectiveness, organizational dynamics, and the tools they employ, especially in their interactions with firms. His research journey has led to three dissertation pieces that discuss:

• The dynamics of nonresponse in activist-firm interactions.
• The varied responses of multinational companies to activist campaigns.
• The significance of utilitarian impact measures in non-profits.

In addition to these projects, Jun collaborates with his advisor, Massimo Maoret, on social network projects and other faculty members on a range of topics.

Equipped with a strong foundation in quantitative research, Jun applies data analytics to his projects, ensuring data is aptly prepared for econometric analysis. He is also intrigued by the potential of machine learning techniques, particularly the application of reinforcement learning to social science.

Outside of individual research, Jun has been proactive in fostering a sense of community among researchers. He is played a role in establishing the Barcelona Impactful Get-togethers of the Management Community (BIG MaC), co-organizing the largest social movement professional development workshops over the years at the Academy of Management Annual Conference, and spearheading internal research seminars among professors and doctoral students.

Beyond research, Jun has a zest for life. He appreciates a good wine, enjoys various art forms, and stays active, whether it’s through sports or meditation. Having immersed himself in a Vipassana silent retreat, he’s cultivating the art of balance — be it in deep meditation or sunbathing on a beach, where less is often more.

ONGOING RESEARCH

Working Papers:

• No News Is Good News? Consequence of Nonresponse in Activist – Firm dynamic
  Co-authors: Desirée Pacheco & Massimo Maoret

• Reunited: Exploring the performance effects of newcomers’ tie reconnection
  Co-author: Massimo Maoret

• Defeating the Dragon: SMOs’ Journy into MNC Receptivity Across Global Locations and Their Underlying Political Opportunity Structures
  Co-author: Mae McDonnell