Professional Experience of Aikerim Bektemirova:

Falcon and Associates

Position: Associate
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Duration: August 2016 – June 2017

In this role, Aikerim contributed to strategic consulting and development initiatives. She played a key role in advising stakeholders on projects related to education, policy, and business development. She also participated in the Dubai Business Associates (DBA) Programme, further honing her consulting skills and gaining valuable insights into international business environments. During her tenure, Aikerim was recognized with the Erin Langland’s Award for Professional Values, reflecting her dedication and professionalism in delivering high-impact consulting services.

Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA)

Position: Research Intern
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Duration: October 2016 – June 2017

As a research intern, Aikerim worked on policy research and analysis focused on improving the physical learning environment in Dubai schools. She was a co-author of the consulting project titled “Schools of the Future: A Focus on Physical Learning Environment”, aimed at transforming educational spaces to enhance student learning. Her work involved both qualitative and quantitative data analysis, contributing to actionable recommendations for the future development of Dubai's education system.

Academic and Research Experience:

1. University of Cambridge (2018 – 2024):
   Aikerim pursued a PhD in Education, where her research explored the role of Kazakhstani higher education institutions in the post-Soviet nation-building process. She actively participated in the Cambridge Critical Higher Education Research Group (CCHER), contributing to knowledge production discussions.
2. MPhil in Education, Globalisation and International Development (2017 – 2018):
   During her MPhil studies, Aikerim deepened her understanding of education policy and development in global contexts, which laid the foundation for her future research projects.
3. Visiting Scholar and Exchange Programs:
   • University of Wisconsin-Madison (Summer 2015): Engaged in the Wis-Kaz Conversation Partners Program, fostering cross-cultural exchange and academic collaboration.
   • Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea (Fall 2011): Participated in an exchange program, enriching her knowledge in political science and international relations.

Key Research Projects and Presentations:

• Presenter: “The Role of Kazakhstani HEIs, as Knowledge-Producing Entities, in Kazakhstan's Post-Soviet Nation-Building” at the Cambridge CCHER Colloquium (April 2022).
• Presenter: “Finding Funded PhD Positions in the UK” at Nazarbayev University (October 2022).
• Co-presenter: “Researching School Choice in Kazakhstan” with Dr. Christopher Whitsel at the Joint ASEEES and CESS Conference (May 2014).

Skills and Expertise:

Aikerim has developed expertise in qualitative research methodologies, including in-depth and semi-structured interviews. She is proficient in data analysis tools such as NVivo and adept at critical discourse analysis. In addition, her skills extend to project management and consulting, with specialized training provided by ESMT Berlin and Capadev LLP.

She possesses strong academic writing skills and is experienced in editing, proofreading, and referencing using formats such as APA and MLA. Aikerim is also skilled in creating impactful presentations using PowerPoint and Keynote, and she delivers these effectively both online and offline.

Languages:

• Kazakh: Native
• Russian: Fluent
• English: Fluent (C2)
• Chinese: Basic (A1)

Awards and Accomplishments:

• Erin Langland’s Award for Professional Values, Falcon & Associates (June 2017).
• Outstanding Major Award, Nazarbayev University Sociology Department (June 2016).
• Exchange & Visiting International Student Academic Excellence Award, University of Wisconsin-Madison (Summer 2015).
• Dean’s List at Nazarbayev University (2013 – 2015).