Three members of faculty at Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai have successfully completed their PhD studies, Dr Christopher Jensen, Dr Matthew Brown, and Dr Engie Bashir, each of whom make significant contributions in their respective fields.Dr Christopher, Lecturer in Business Management, earned his PhD in Management and Virtue Ethics with a thesis titled ‘Fostering Virtue Among Autorickshaw Drivers in Sri Lanka: A Case Study of an Urban Sharing Institution.’ His research explores the ethical implications of algorithmic management in emerging markets. Specifically, it examines how digital platforms shape the behaviour of autorickshaw drivers in Sri Lanka.His work merges institutional theory with virtue ethics frameworks, offering valuable insights on how managers and organisations can foster ethical decision-making and cultivate virtuous behaviours in the workforce.Dr Matthew, Senior Lecturer in Marketing, completed his PhD with groundbreaking research on the ‘Co-creation and User Value in the Smart City Digital Sharing Economy: Perspectives of Expatriates in Dubai, UAE.’ Dr Matthew’s research has been particularly timely given Dubai's commitment to the Smart Government initiative. His mixed-method study investigates how expatriates in the UAE perceive and create value from the various digital services provided by the Dubai government. Despite balancing a full-time teaching role and leading the CIM Study Centre, Dr Matthew completed his dissertation in just four years. His work provides both practical insights for city managers and valuable conceptual material for academic study, contributing to the growth of expatriate talent and the development of smart cities.Dr Engie completed her innovative PhD in Computer Science with a thesis titled ‘Re-engineering the Development of Personas through a User-Centred Human-Machine Teaming Approach.’ Dr Engie's research, conducted under the Faculty PhD Research Support Initiative, introduces a new method for persona creation that integrates human-machine teaming.The Persona Process Model (PPM) and its proof-of-concept, the Persona Toolkit (PT), developed through her work, offer practical solutions to enhance the efficiency, trustworthiness, and reusability of persona creation. Dr Engie completed her PhD while continuing her full-time role as a Senior Lecturer and UG Course Programme Co-ordinator in the Computer Engineering & Informatics department, co-chairing the Middlesex Innovation Hub (MIH), and leading the development of the Alumni portal.The Doctors all demonstrated exceptional dedication and passion for their fields, a testament to the thriving academic community at MDX Dubai, their hard work and commitment to advancing knowledge in their respective disciplines, are sure to leave a lasting impact on students, academia and industry alike.

Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai have partnered with digital transformation company CNTXT, enhancing its industry connections and providing further career-focused opportunities for students. CNTXT specialise in providing cloud solutions, services such as AI model integration, data labelling, and advanced analytics. They play a crucial role in advancing technological innovation and supporting digital transformation across the region.A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between CNTXT and the University at an Industry Research Showcase held on 8 February at their campus in Dubai Knowledge Park.The MoU was signed by Professor Cedwyn Fernandes, Pro Vice-Chancellor Middlesex University, Director Middlesex University Dubai; and Lathan Jacobs, Commercial Director, CNTXT. This new partnership aims to drive cutting-edge research and AI applications, offering students exciting opportunities to engage with industry-leading projects, fostering collaboration in research and innovation.The signing ceremony was a highlight of the first round of the 2025 Industry Research showcase, which featured discussions and internship opportunities with representatives from Dubai Police, CNTXT, and SAS. Dr Hamad Alawar, Director of the International Centre for Forensic Science, Dubai Police, shared insights on the integration of AI and forensic science in policing.  Meanwhile, Aviral Singh, Head of Partnerships, CNTXT and Badshah Mukherjee, Principal Customer Advisory Manager, SAS, highlighted advancements in AI, analytics, and their real-world applications.The partnership, and research showcase, marks further steps in bridging the gap between academic learning and industry needs, enhancing the University's commitment to fostering innovation, research and career ready graduates.Take advantage of more than 500 industry connections and join a Computer Engineering and Informatics programme with MDX Dubai this year. Apply now.

Are you ready to shape your future with a world-class British education? This year, for the first time ever, Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai is offering an April intake for its Daytime MBA programme, alongside its September intake. Daytime MBA programmes are ideal for ambitious graduates on their journeys towards managerial and leadership roles. The MDX Dubai MBA (Daytime Delivery) will provide students with the necessary tools and insights to navigate the complexities of modern business environments and fulfil career ambitions.MDX Dubai is celebrated for providing a diverse range of over 80 UK-accredited specialist programmes across various fields. From foundation programmes, undergraduate and postgraduate courses, the university offers degrees in business, design, technology, media, finance, law, and many more.The university is also preparing to launch a host of exciting new programmes in September 2025 across multiple departments. These new courses will open up even more opportunities for students to pursue their academic and career ambitions.At MDX Dubai, education is accessible and inclusive, with a range of scholarships and grants available at all levels, alongside assistance with visas and admissions, helping give everyone the opportunity to gain a quality UK education in the heart of Dubai. The state-of-the-art campus, equipped with cutting-edge technology and laboratories, is the perfect environment for students to innovate, collaborate, and thrive. With frequent open days scheduled in the coming months, you are invited to experience the vibrant campus first-hand.MDX Dubai is a true blend of culture, diversity and an unrivalled student experience, with over 120 different nationalities coming together for a comprehensive education and preparation for a successful career.Whether you’re joining us in April for the Daytime MBA programme or preparing for the exciting new September offerings, start your journey to success at Middlesex University Dubai today.