Editorial portrait of Royal Shrestha

Bridging Industry & Academia.

My journey bridges the fast-paced world of technology leadership in Nepal with the rigorous, deeply analytical environment of academic research in the United States. Before pursuing my doctoral studies, I spent years navigating the complexities of digital product development and strategic communications across diverse markets.

At CU Boulder, my research focuses on how AI disclosure, algorithmic evaluation, and platform design shape trust and decision-making. I seek to understand how strategic communication adapts when audiences, evaluators, and even communicators themselves are increasingly algorithmic.

American Academy of Advertising

American Advertising Federation

Academic Record

Ph.D. in Strategic Communication

2029 (Expected)

University of Colorado Boulder

M.S. in Advertising & PR

2025

Texas Christian University (TCU)

Master of Business Administration

2020

Westcliff University

Bachelor of Business Studies

2018

Tribhuvan University

Milestones & Experience

A chronological intersection of industry practice and academic achievement.

Academic — 2025

PhD Student · CU Boulder

Began doctoral studies in Strategic Communication at the University of Colorado Boulder, researching AI disclosure, algorithmic evaluation, and trust.

Academic — 2023 – 2025

M.S. Advertising & PR · TCU

Graduate study and teaching assistantship at Texas Christian University, with thesis work on the AI disclosure effect in influencer marketing.

Experience — 2021 – 2023

Lead Strategist · Anigraphy Studio

Directed comprehensive brand strategies and digital narratives for corporate clients across South Asia, bridging creative execution with market analytics.

Experience — 2019 – 2021

Product Manager · Sagoon Inc.

Led cross-functional engineering and design teams to develop and deploy social commerce features, scaling user engagement and optimizing retention.

Award — 2020

MBA with Distinction · Westcliff University

Completed the MBA with an applied capstone addressing organizational inefficiencies in emerging tech startups.

Experience — 2018 – 2019

Co-Founder · Skillathon

Established an educational technology initiative aimed at democratizing access to specialized vocational training in Nepal.