How do you describe your work to people who don’t work in your field?
My research examines the intersections between law and policy, science and technology, environmental sustainability, and various forms of justice. I’m particularly interested in the ways in which law and policy operates to regulate novel developments in food and medicine, who gets to participate in that process, and towards what ends.
My doctoral research focused on novel developments in the agri-food sector, especially products of cellular agriculture/cultivated meat. Since then, I have branched out to explore topics including psychedelic drugs, ghost kitchens, and social media/influencer marketing.
What’s one big problem you want to solve through your work?
Despite the myriad ways in which science and technology have made many aspects of human life easier, safer and more efficient, we are still facing concerning levels of hunger, poverty and inequality on a global scale. These aren’t simply technical problems that can be addressed with technical solutions, but are fundamentally social and political ones. This means that government and policymakers have a profound role to play in addressing them, whether through technological means or otherwise.
Although technology undoubtedly has a role to play in any vision of a more just and sustainable future, we can’t assume that technologies are complete solutions in and of themselves, especially within current incentive structures. I want to see better alignment between technology, markets, public opinion and the law, such that technological developments can be better directed towards the public good, rather than being focused primarily on private profit.
What does the word “innovation” mean to you?
To me, “innovation” means some kind of intervention that improves outcomes, opens up different perspectives or possibilities, or otherwise stimulates some kind of breakthrough allowing for positive change. These days, innovation is often associated with cutting-edge advances in science and technology, but I don’t think that necessarily has to be the case. Some of the most significant innovations in history relate to small changes that have large impact, such as the introduction of regular handwashing and hygiene protocols in healthcare settings. In my view, innovations should be driven by the problems they’re intended to solve, rather than representing solutions in search of problems—as can be the case when attempting to innovate purely for innovation’s sake.
What’s been your biggest a-ha moment — in life or work — so far?
My biggest a-ha moment was appreciating the value of doing difficult things, and how the best way to boost self-esteem is to comport yourself in a manner worthy of respect. Whether through grappling with a research project, traveling to an unfamiliar place, or having a hard conversation, it’s clear to me that growth starts once you push yourself out of your comfort zone, and that trying to avoid a moment of pain in the present can make things a lot worse in the future. Relatedly, failure isn’t always personal, and there’s usually something valuable to take away even from the most negative of experiences if you’re willing to look for it.
How do you come up with your best ideas? (Do you have any rituals or habits that trigger your creative spark, for example? What do you do to create space for innovation?)
While focused thinking is obviously important, I’m also a big believer in using the diffuse mode of the brain to mull over questions and problems in the background. I’ve had some of my best ideas come to me while doing everyday activities like running, walking, listening to music, watching TV, or chatting with friends. Because much of my research focuses on contemporary socio-legal issues, I also get a lot of ideas from keeping up with the news on a wide variety of topics.
What’s your favourite thing about working at the 伊人直播?
People really make a place, and I’m fortunate to have some exceptional colleagues at the Faculty of Law (and beyond). One of the other great things about the 伊人直播 is its research strengths across a number of important areas, while maintaining the down-to-earth and collegial atmosphere of a smaller institution. Of course, the proximity to parks and the beautiful River Valley doesn’t hurt either!
In Shape: The University Strategic Plan 2023-33, the 伊人直播 commits to having a positive impact on our students and staff, our communities and the communities we serve here in Alberta and around the world. How does the work you do create impact?
Law school is notoriously challenging, and those challenges are often compounded for students who come from backgrounds or groups that are underrepresented in the legal profession. As a first-generation immigrant, law school graduate, and now, legal academic, I know firsthand how much representation matters, and am grateful for the opportunity to pave the way for those situated similarly to me. I strive to have a positive impact on all my students, including through modeling qualities that I think are important for academic, professional, and personal growth.
Beyond the classroom, my research allows me to engage directly with problems and issues that are relevant to all people, and I try to lend my time and expertise to the broader community in multiple different capacities, such as through my current position on the National Steering Committee of the National Association of Women and the Law.
What’s next for you? Do you have any new projects on the horizon?
I’ve recently been honoured to receive the 2025 Petro-Canada Emerging Innovator Award, and will be using the funds to support my ongoing research on food and drug regulation. In addition, I’m chipping away at a book project on innovation policy in Canada, and looking forward to teaching a new course on Law, Technology, and Society at the Faculty of Law for the first time this coming Fall!
