From Nepal to Nordic Excellence: Dr. Erose Sthapit Among World's Top Researchers - "There is a fun-filled competition with my former instructors"

Dr. Erose Sthapit rarely needs introductions in academic circles. The research services expert at Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences has built a formidable reputation that extends far beyond Finland's borders.

Last year, Stanford University ranked him among the top two percent of researchers worldwide in his field—a recognition that still makes his eyes light up when discussing it. 

"Of course, this makes my heart pound," he says. "It's every scientist's dream to get recognition for their work. What this technically means is that people read my papers and cite them in their own research."

Academic Excellence by the Numbers

The accolades don't stop there. According to the SCImago Journal Rank (SJR) indicator, which measures citations and the impact of scientific publications, Dr. Sthapit ranked among Finland's top ten researchers last summer and currently holds eleven positions on that prestigious list.

His productivity is remarkable. Since joining Haaga-Helia as a research development and innovation expert in autumn 2019—later transitioning to research services expert due to organizational changes—he has published 15 academic papers. In 2018 alone, he accumulated twelve publications.

For Dr. Sthapit, this prolific output represents more than professional achievement. 

"In a way, publishing is a fun-filled race I have with my former instructors," he says with a smile, acknowledging the competitive spirit that drives his work.

From Rovaniemi to Recognition

Dr. Sthapit's Finnish academic journey began at the University of Lapland in Rovaniemi, where he completed his master's degree. He then moved to the University of Vaasa as a researcher, eventually completing his doctorate there under the supervision of Professor Peter Björk of Hanken and Professor Emeritus Martti Laaksonen. 

Björk's influence, he notes, continues to shape his current work.

According to Dr. Sthapit, the transition to Finland's harsh climate wasn't always easy. 

"Adapting to the cold and dark winter of Rovaniemi was challenging," he admits, "not to mention the biting marine climate of Vaasa and Helsinki." However, these challenges became opportunities for growth. "After moving to Finland, I had time to focus on myself for the first time in my life—to think about my own needs and goals."

Finding Balance in Finnish Nature

Despite his academic success, Dr. Sthapit maintains that research isn't everything. He has fallen deeply in love with Finnish nature, spending considerable time outdoors running, swimming, hiking, and exploring. 

"Finland is truly an ideal place to spend time in nature," he observes.

He particularly enjoys short road trips to Finnish rural landscapes and small towns, finding that rural peace provides essential counterbalance to his work and metropolitan life. 

"Sometimes it's good to get away from all the noise and stress," he reflects.

This balance becomes especially important given his work intensity. Even during summer, when others vacation, the dedicated researcher published two academic papers. 

"Sometimes, perhaps, I work too much, as I barely ever have vacations," he acknowledges with a laugh.

Looking Forward: Teaching and Institutional Growth

Dr. Sthapit's future plans include returning to teaching, an activity he misses from his time giving lectures to master's students in Vaasa. He also dreams of helping Haaga-Helia achieve new accreditations.

"In recent years, Haaga-Helia has taken huge steps in developing its research capabilities, but we still lack some key accreditations that are strongly connected to academia," he explains. 

While he would love to collaborate more with Haaga-Helia researchers on these goals, time constraints pose challenges since research and academic publications aren't officially part of his job description as a research services expert.

His current specialization focuses on financial instruments and drafting funding applications, but he appreciates Haaga-Helia's supportive approach. 

"Fortunately for me, Haaga-Helia is really supportive when it comes to research work—as long as there are enthusiasm and skill involved," he laughs

Academic Passion Meets Professional Purpose

For Dr. Sthapit, academic work represents a passion that extends well beyond office hours. His remarkable journey from Nepal to Nordic academic excellence demonstrates how dedication, adaptability, and genuine curiosity can lead to international recognition.

As he continues to balance his official duties with his research passion, his story serves as an inspiration for both current and aspiring researchers at Haaga-Helia and beyond.

This article is part of the "Familiar with the Research Field" series, highlighting influential figures in Haaga-Helia's research community. Our next story will feature researcher Tiina Brandt.

Learn more about Haaga-Helia's research, development, and innovation work at https://www.haaga-helia.fi/en/research-and-development​