She possesses Master's degrees in Business Administration and International Industrial Management as well as a PhD degree in Entrepreneurship and Innovation. She started working as a Senior Researcher in Nordland Research Institute in 2006, closely focusing on entrepreneurship and regional innovation. In 2008, Dr. Iakovleva joined Stravanger University as an Associate Professor. She was affiliated with the Stravanger Center for Innovation Research in 2009, and has been initiating and conducting research projects on entrepreneurial intentions and small business growth and performance. Dr. Iakovleva's areas of expertise include entrepreneurial orientation, women-led enterprises and commercialization of innovations.