"Beyond the Code: Understanding How, When and Why Humans Employ Generative AI in Innovation"

Call for Papers-"Beyond the Code: Understanding How, When and Why Humans Employ Generative AI in Innovation"

Journal: Journal of Managerial Psychology

Publisher: Emerald Publishing

Submission Deadline: 31 Aug 2026

Key Requirements:

• Multi-level studies (individual/team/organizational) on Gen AI in innovation

• Empirical focus on managerial challenges/practical guidance

• Interdisciplinary: innovation, OB, HR, strategy, technology

Overview

This special issue explores how Generative AI (Gen AI/LLMs like ChatGPT) transforms innovation processes, human capabilities, and organizational practices. It addresses uneven adoption, reskilling needs, and ethical governance, providing managers actionable insights for leveraging Gen AI in innovation.

Key Research Themes

Theme 1: Gen AI & Innovation Processes

• Gen AI in opportunity identification, idea generation, evaluation

• Multi-level (individual/team/org) process replacement/reinforcement/revelation

• Effects on efficiency, novelty, market responsiveness

Theme 2: Gen AI & Human Capabilities

• Individual/team innovation outcomes with Gen AI

• Psychological/behavioral effects (engagement, autonomy)

• Leadership competencies for AI adoption

Theme 3: Gen AI & Organizational Capabilities

• Capabilities for Gen AI integration/skill development

• Ethical governance (IP, transparency, responsibility)

• Strategic deployment for competitive advantage

Submission Details

• Opens: 15 January 2026

• Closes: 31 August 2026

• Select: Special issue title from submission dropdown menu

Guest Editor Team

• Dr. William Y. Degbey, University of Vaasa, Finland (william.degbey@uwasa.fi)

• Dr. Maria Pajuoja, University of Vaasa, Finland; Esade, Spain (maria.pajuoja@uwasa.fi)

• Dr. Matti Pihlajamaa, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland (matti.pihlajamaa@vtt.fi)

• Dr. Baniyelme D. Zoogah, McMaster University, Canada (zoogahb@mcmaster.ca)

• Dr. Waymond Rodgers, University of Texas, USA (wrodgers@utep.edu)

Why This Issue Matters

Guides managers through Gen AI's innovation potential amid talent shortages and ethical challenges. Bridges psychological insights with practical strategies for GDP-boosting adoption.

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