AI-based Analysis of Implicit Follower Assumptions in Transformational Leadership

Format: Hybrid (Online and On-campus)
Number of Interns (Quota): 2
Duration of the Internship: 6 to 8 weeks
Start Date: Flexible starting from June 1st
End Date: 25 July 2025
Application Deadline: 15 May 2025
Project Supervisor: Dr. Aybike Mergen
Project Title: AI-based Analysis of Implicit Follower Assumptions in Transformational Leadership

Project Description: This research project aims to explore the implicit assumptions about followers embedded in Transformational Leadership (TL) theory. While TL is often treated as a universally desirable leadership style, it contains fundamental assumptions about followers that remain unexamined. This project builds on previous research on implicit follower assumptions in Chinese leadership paradigms and extends the methodology to TL.

A systematic literature review (SLR) will be conducted using the PRISMA framework, identifying and analyzing academic articles on TL to uncover both explicit and implicit assumptions about followers. A large language model (AI) will be utilized to assist in extracting these assumptions, making it feasible to process the vast TL literature efficiently.

The internship will focus on the initial steps of this research, including literature review, data collection, and preliminary AI-assisted analysis. The project may continue into the Fall semester as an independent study.

Requirements: Business major with a demonstrated interest in leadership and management research.

• Completed at least 180 ECTS (Senior students)
• GPA > 2.90
• Strong analytical skills
• Interest in AI applications in management research is a plus

Click for Google Form.