Research Talks
On Public Management and Governance

Welcome to a dynamic, intergenerational forum designed to bridge the gap between emerging research and seasoned academic insight. The “Research Talks on Public Management and Governance” is a unique event that brings together early-career researchers with established scholars in the field of public administration, governance, and public policy.
Each session features short, engaging presentations by young researchers who share their latest findings, methodological innovations, or conceptual breakthroughs. These are followed by moderated panel discussions where senior experts respond, challenge, and build upon the presented work — fostering a rich, critical, and collaborative dialogue. The goal is not merely to showcase research, but to co-create knowledge across generations, disciplines, and institutional backgrounds.
This is more than an academic conference — it’s a living laboratory for ideas. In a mutual discovery process, we will discuss future challenges and topics for research in public management and governance.
The event is structured to maximize interaction: short talks (10–15 min), followed by minute panel discussions, and open Q&A. Light refreshments and informal networking follow each session — because the best ideas often emerge not on stage, but over coffee.
Join us. Contribute. Challenge. Learn. Shape the next chapter of public management — together.

Friday, September 25th – Learning Expedition

Learning Expedition: Governance, Nature, and Tradition Across Borders
All conference participants are invited to join a curated day-long learning expedition that explores the intersection of governance, sustainability, and cultural heritage in eastern Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein. The journey begins at 09:00 with a visit to Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein — a unique microstate where monarchy, modern governance, and Alpine charm converge. Participants will gain insight into the political structure and public administration of this sovereign principality, including its constitutional monarchy and how it balances tradition with innovation in public service delivery.
From Bears to Bureaucracy: A Day of Discovery
In the early afternoon, the group will travel to Arosa for a hands-on session on “Sustainable Bear Management” — a metaphorical and literal exploration of how communities coexist with nature, manage ecological challenges, and implement long-term sustainability policies. The late afternoon brings us to St. Gallen, where participants will meet the Canton’s Secretary General for a behind-the-scenes look at democratic public administration in a Swiss canton — discussing decentralization, citizen participation, and administrative efficiency. The day concludes at 18:00, followed by an optional informal dinner in St. Gallen (at own expense), offering a relaxed setting to reflect on the day’s experiences and continue conversations with fellow attendees.

This workshop invites contributions that engage with the big questions of public administration and management. We are particularly interested in papers that revisit, refine, or redefine enduring and emerging questions of the field in light of current transformations in the public sector and beyond. This includes developments related to digital transformation, artificial intelligence, democratic institutions, public values, cybersecurity and digital infrastructures, public sector innovation, and the changing relationship between state, society, and markets.
By bringing junior scholars into dialogue with established researchers, the workshop creates a space for critical exchange across generations. It also offers early-career researchers the opportunity to expand their academic networks, connect with peers and senior scholars, and engage with an emerging international community in the field. Submitted papers will receive feedback from senior scholars and may also be considered for a prospective special issue currently under review at a leading international journal in public administration and management.

• Hotel rooms: We have pre-booked hotel rooms from 23rd to 26thSeptember, 2026 for all participantsat the LEO Hotel near the St. Gallentrain station.–
• Conference cost: All conference costare covered by the Institute of Systemic Management and Public Governance, University of St. Gallen. Thisincludes meals during the day andin the evenings, with the exceptionof the informal dinner on the 25thSeptember.–
• Travel arrangements: Participantswill make their travel arrangementsindividually and cover the cost oftravel. If you need a visa, please letus know in advance so we can send aletter of invitation early enough.

The event is SOLD OUT!

The Institute for Systemic Management and Public Governance has been active in research and practice of public management for more than 30 years. In 1996, it enabled the foundation of the International Public Management Network in St. Gallen; from 1995 till 2005, it was among the major drivers for the adaptation and introduction of the new public management in Switzerland ("outcome-based public management"); from 2000, it fostered research in e-government, which culminated in the foundation of our Smart GovernmentLab. Conceptual (guru) books on long-term performance budgeting; politicalreform; cost accounting in public administration; electronic government;management of state-owned enterprises; and service model innovation haveleft an impactful trace in Switzerland.
By the end of 2026, Kuno Schedler will retire and a potential successor will take over. This research talk shall path the way to a successful future of public management in St. Gallen.

Research Panels & Community Building

Skills, Mentoring & Future Directions