BENGALURU — Addressing critical challenges in human resource management and startup governance, Mr. Venkatesh R, a doctoral scholar from the Fellow Programme in Management (FPM, Batch 2021) at ISBR Business School, successfully delivered his FPM Pre Synopsis Presentation on September 03, 2026. His research investigates the psychological and organizational consequences of downsizing, focusing on the downside of layoffs in startups and its direct effect on employee motivation and commitment.
FPM Pre Synopsis Presentation: Event Overview
| Parameter | Details |
| Academic Programme | Fellow Programme in Management (FPM) |
| Scholar & Batch | Mr. Venkatesh R (Batch 2021 / FPM17-2021) |
| Milestone Event | Pre-Synopsis External Presentation |
| Date of Presentation | Thursday, September 03, 2026 |
| Research Title | Downside of Layoffs in Startups & Its Effect on Employee Motivation & Commitment |
| Research Guide | Dr. M. R. Jhansi Rani (Professor & Director – Research Centre, ISBR) |
| External Examiner | Dr. Ramu N (Associate Professor & Registrar, IFIM) |
| Research Advisory Committee | Dr. Padma Mahadevan (Professor) & Dr. Miral Jani (Assistant Professor) |
Key Highlights of the FPM Pre Synopsis Presentation

1. Research Scope & Startup Workforce Dynamics
The study, titled “Downside of Layoffs in Startups & Its Effect on Employee Motivation & Commitment,” explores critical post-downsizing dynamics within fast-paced venture environments. By assessing survivor morale, workplace trust, and psychological security, the research aims to provide actionable strategies for leadership to preserve workforce commitment during economic restructuring.
2. Academic Leadership & Panel Review
- Research Leadership: The doctoral thesis is guided by Dr. M. R. Jhansi Rani, Professor & Director of the Research Centre at ISBR Business School.
- External Evaluation: External Examiner Dr. Ramu N, Associate Professor & Registrar at IFIM, reviewed the work, providing valuable scholarly observations and constructive recommendations to enhance the analytical depth of the study.
- Research Advisory Committee Review: RAC members Dr. Padma Mahadevan (Professor) and Dr. Miral Jani (Assistant Professor) evaluated the presentation, offering targeted feedback to refine the empirical framework and research methodology.
Next Steps Following the FPM Pre Synopsis Presentation
The academic feedback received during the FPM Pre Synopsis Presentation will guide Mr. Venkatesh R in refining his final thesis as he prepares for his final synopsis submission and dissertation defense. This milestone underscores ISBR Business School’s commitment to supporting high-impact, industry-relevant research in human resources and organizational survival.