Celebrating SFU’s inspiring postdoctoral fellows

Area of research: Discourse linguistics, game studies, digital communities

I am currently analyzing online toxicity on the streaming platform Twitch. That means I am looking into livestreams of games and the interaction between streamers and chat. Gaming discourse, especially in huge channels with ‘crowdspeak’ is very hard to comprehend for people who are not participating because of specific codes, and many practices can seem very toxic. My research tries to investigate the positive, community-building functions of seemingly toxic linguistic behaviour.

What do people think you do—versus what you actually do? What do you want people to know about your research?
When people walk by my office it sometimes will seem like I am just watching entertaining streams all day. Others think it is a pain to watch the often overstimulating or toxic content that is part of my project, but it is actually very exciting for me to see the deep intertextual origin of emotes or creative play with language that can be found in Twitch chats.

What do you aspire to create during your time at SFU?
I would love to contribute to a better understanding of Twitch streams as a linguistic research object by developing methodologies and creating a corpus that can be used in further research. I also hope that an increased understanding of toxicity will contribute to preventing toxic behaviour and making online communities on platforms like Twitch a safer place for all participants.

Area of research: Chemistry and biology

My research focuses on developing a nucleic acid concentrator for Point-of-Care (POC) diagnostics. I find this work fascinating because it has the potential to revolutionize POC testing by greatly enhancing the sensitivity, accuracy and speed of molecular assays, making diagnostics more efficient and impactful.

What do you aspire to learn during your time at SFU?
During my time at SFU, I aspire to learn as much as possible and broaden my knowledge across disciplines. I want to take full advantage of the resources, mentorship, and collaborative environment to sharpen my skills. At the same time, I aim to build a strong, supportive professional network that will help shape and sustain my future opportunities.

What’s your best advice for other postdocs and researchers as they embark on their new projects and studies?
My advice is to stay self-motivated, since your principal investigator or mentor can only guide you, but persistence comes from within. Equally, foster open discussion and collaboration rather than competition, as a toxic environment slows progress. Science advances best in supportive teams, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential not only for productivity but also for long-term well-being.

Area of research: Microbial ecology, environmental microbiology, and bioinformatics

I use metagenomic approaches to study the invisible life drifting through the air. My research explores how airborne bacteria survive extreme conditions, remain active, and interact with trace gases such as methane. I am fascinated by how these overlooked organisms influence climate processes while moving between ecosystems. At SFU, I value combining molecular biology with large-scale bioinformatics and mentoring the next generation of scientists.

Area of research: cognitive modeling, generative AI, and human-AI collaboration in autonomous driving

My research explores the intersection of cognitive modeling, generative AI, and human-AI collaboration in autonomous driving. I’m fascinated by how we can replicate and augment human decision-making in complex driving scenarios, making intelligent systems safer and more intuitive.

What do you aspire to accomplish during your time at SFU?
I aim to develop hybrid driver assistance systems that integrate cognitive architectures, real-time eye-tracking, and generative models to enhance situational awareness and human-machine coordination in autonomous vehicles.

A scholar who inspires me:
I am deeply inspired by my PhD supervisor, Professor Ahmad Rad, whose mentorship has shaped both my research philosophy and technical depth. His vision for integrating engineering rigor with human-centered design has been pivotal in guiding my work. I am also influenced by Allen Newell, whose foundational work in cognitive architectures laid the groundwork for systems like ACT-R that now inform my research.

What is your best advice to other postdocs and researchers as they embark on their new projects and studies?
Pursue research that aligns with your deepest questions. Stay adaptable, build authentic collaborations, and treat obstacles as part of the creative process—they often lead to the most meaningful breakthroughs.

Area of research: 
O-GlcNAc molecular biology

My research focuses on understanding the regulation of O-GlcNAc, a dynamic post-translational modification that plays critical roles in cellular signaling, neurodevelopment, and cancer. This process is tightly controlled by two enzymes: OGT, which adds O-GlcNAc, and OGA, which removes it.  

What do people think you do—versus what you actually do?
Many people assume my research focuses on just studying a single enzyme or small biochemical pathway. They often think I spend all my time looking at molecules in isolation, detached from real-world health problems. In reality, my work goes far beyond that. I study how a tiny sugar modification called O-GlcNAc  regulates cellular processes that are essential for brain development, cancer progression, and immune responses.

What do you aspire to accomplish during your time at SFU?
At SFU, my goal is to deepen our understanding of how cellular regulatory mechanisms influence development and disease, while building a strong foundation for my future independent research program.

What is your best advice for other postdocs and researchers as they embark on their new projects and studies?My advice is to stay curious, be open to learning new techniques, and build strong collaborations. Success in research often comes from persistence and a supportive network.

Area of research: Hydrogen energy

My research is conducted as part of an interdisciplinary research group focused on the integration of low-carbon solutions, such as vehicle electrification, micro-mobility, and advanced transportation planning to support the transition to cleaner and more sustainable urban mobility. Within this context, my expertise and research interests lie in hydrogen energy, particularly in the techno-economic and life cycle assessment of hydrogen production and utilization systems.

What do you aspire to accomplish during your time at SFU?During my time at SFU, I aspire to develop my leadership and management skills by mentoring graduate students and gaining hands-on experience in preparing professional proposals to secure research funding. I also look forward to opportunities to engage in teaching, which will allow me to strengthen my instructional and communication abilities for my long-term career goal of contributing to academia.

What’s your best advice for other postdocs and researchers as they embark on their new projects and studies?
I would suggest approaching new projects with curiosity and persistence, and not being afraid to collaborate across disciplines as this often sparks the most interesting ideas. Stay organized, remain flexible when things do not go as planned, and balance creativity with meaningful research while fostering professional growth.

Area of research: Control of robotic exoskeletons

I work on exoskeletons, wearable robots that help disabled people walk. Beyond my long-standing passion for robotics, my driving force is making the world a better place for everyone. At SFU, I aim to contribute meaningfully to this field of research and build a strong network with like-minded researchers and engineers. I encourage new researchers and postdocs to face challenges with confidence and keep their vision alive.

Area of research: Housing justice activism in Canada

In my research, I get to connect with organizers who have spent decades advocating for the rights of unhoused and precariously housed citizens across Canada.

I am currently studying and sharing the role of the activist-as-educator through oral history interviews and archival research in state and community based archives. During my postdoc, I hope to publish a book about the Toronto Homeless Memorial and the role of public commemoration in the fight for housing justice

Area of research: Inorganic chemistry and radiochemistry

I explore the chemistry of radiometal complexes for cancer imaging and therapy, driven by the excitement of turning fundamental science into medical solutions. I am passionate about my research because every step has the potential to create safer, more effective radiopharmaceuticals that can improve patients’ lives and advance the field of precision medicine.

A scholar who inspires me:
Lise Meitner

What is your best advice for other postdocs and researchers as they embark on their new projects and studies?
Approach each day with the curiosity that fuels a scientist’s journey, seeing every detail as an opportunity to learn and discover.

Area of study: Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and nanosystems

My research focuses on MEMS silicon resonators, examining their design, modeling, and material properties. I find it fascinating because it links nanoscale physics with practical applications in sensing, timing, and communications.

What do people think you do—versus what you actually do? What do you want people to know about your research?
People often assume I simply “make tiny sensors.” In reality, I integrate modeling, material characterization, and fabrication to advance MEMS resonators. This interdisciplinary work bridges physics, materials science, and engineering, with applications in healthcare, communications, and beyond.

At SFU, I focus on next-generation timing devices, the heartbeat of modern electronics designed to be smaller, more stable, and energy efficient. These innovations will drive breakthroughs in navigation, communication, and computing, shaping the future of connected technologies.

Name a scholar who inspires you.
I am inspired by Dr. Clark T.-C. Nguyen, a pioneer in MEMS resonators, whose groundbreaking vision shaped the field. I am equally motivated by my PhD supervisor, Dr. Joshua E. Y. Lee, whose mentorship and commitment to scientific excellence continue to guide my research approach and academic journey.

What’s your best advice for other postdocs and researchers as they embark on their new projects and studies?
Stay curious, persistent, and collaborative. Research often brings setbacks, but resilience and openness to new ideas lead to breakthroughs. Build meaningful networks, seek mentors, and celebrate small milestones. Most importantly, remember that impactful discoveries often emerge at the intersections of disciplines and through collective effort.

Area of study: Epidemiology

My research focuses on primary care, especially access and health equity. I’m fascinated by how data reveals patterns that improve care quality and reduce inequities. I want to help build a fairer health system for all.

What do people think you do—versus what you actually do? What do you want people to know about your research?
My daughter thinks I’m just “studying,” while my mom imagines I’m a doctor who teaches. I was a physician, but now I’m an epidemiologist, studying and teaching myself while producing evidence to improve care, especially for older adults.

Name a scholar who inspires you in your work.
I’m inspired by Dr. Neil Drummond, my PhD supervisor, who balances tireless work and life with grace. I also admire Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thy Khue, my mentor in Viet Nam, who earned her first Japanese certificate at 76. Her nonstop learning is my motivation.

What’s your best advice for other postdocs and researchers as they embark on their new projects and studies?
Be stubborn. Obstacles and uncertainty are part of research, and persistence is what carries you through to meaningful results.

Area of research: Microelectronics and biomedical engineering, biosensor and photosensor silicon devices

My research focuses on the field of microelectronic fabrication on crystalline silicon substrates, as well as studies in photonic and reliability. It is applicable for biosensors that detect proteins associated with certain diseases to identify diseases in blood and saliva, and photosensors for Detecting Gases H2S and NO₂ at ppb levels in air. My research involves studying the behaviour of medical devices under operational conditions to enhance durability, efficiency, and functionality, particularly for scalable technologies.

Area of study: Immunology and oncology

I study APOBEC DNA/RNA-editing enzymes and how they influence immunity and cancer. These enzymes protect us by mutating viral genomes but can also create harmful mutations that drive cancer. I find it fascinating that the same molecular processes can act as both guardians and threats, offering insights into disease origins and potential therapies.

What do you aspire to accomplish during your time at SFU?
I aspire to build a comprehensive understanding of how APOBEC enzymes shape immune responses and cancer evolution, and to translate that knowledge into strategies for better diagnostics and therapies. At SFU, I aim to foster collaborations that bridge molecular biology, structural biology, and computational approaches to establish new paradigms in immunology and oncology.

What’s your best advice for other postdocs and researchers as they embark on their new projects and studies?
Stay curious and fearless. Some of the most exciting discoveries emerge when you step into unexplored territory and challenge established assumptions. At the same time, build strong collaborations—complex biological problems require diverse perspectives and expertise

Area of study: Adolescent mental health, parent-child attachment

I believe that supporting family ties and parent-child relationships impacts not only direct beneficiaries, but allows different communities in Canada to thrive and stay resilient to life changes.

What do you want people to know about your research?
I adapt research program to the Ukrainian language and culture, going from measures selection and research plan to communication with Ukrainian communities and knowledge dissemination. Ukrainian families who have arrived in Canada as humanitarian migrants fleeing from the war, are extremely vulnerable and at the same time showing an incredible resilience and thriving potential.

What do you aspire to accomplish during your time at SFU?
During my assignment in SFU I will do my best to accomplish this amazing project of support of Ukrainian parents with children in their native language. I adapt a unique trauma-informed parent training created by Dr. Marlene Moretti to the needs and realities of the Ukrainian community and with the Adolescent Health Lab team we will evaluate the effectiveness of this culturally tailored intervention.

Name a scholar (living or dead) who inspires you in your work.
Marie Sklodowska-Curie for her incredible dedication to the wellbeing of people through the scientific work.

What’s your best advice for other postdocs and researchers as they embark on their new projects and studies?
Try as much as you can to foresee what you will answer to the question: “And so what?” at the end of your project. Think about impact on real people and act accordingly.

Area of study: Health geography, gerontology, long-term care, and health services research

Name a scholar who inspires you in your work.
I am inspired by the late Victor Marshall, a pioneer in aging research, who was so willing to help a new PhD student that reached out with no personal introduction. He showed how rigorous social science can have real impact, and also how generosity and mentorship matter.

What is your best advice for other postdocs and researchers as they embark on their new projects?
My advice is not to be afraid of messy fieldwork because it is where the magic happens. Also, never underestimate the power of catered lunches to open doors during community-based research!"

Area of study: Antennas and propagation

My applied electromagnetics research primarily involves antenna design, antenna measurement, and propagation. I continue to be fascinated by the enormous range of applicability of different electrical sizes while pursuing engineering solutions. I believe the vast array of potential applications will continue to play a key role in the betterment of society.

What do you want people to know about your research?
People usually have no clue what a post-doc does. Throughout a Canadian PhD program, one often pursues multiple research topics before settling on a thesis topic. Becoming an SFU post-doctoral fellow has given me the opportunity to complete several of these unfinished research projects, including ones on ambient wireless broadcast energy harvesting and super-directive helix antennas.

What’s your best advice for other postdocs and researchers as they embark on their new projects and studies?
Numerous potential research topics arise in the academic environment. It is imperative to carefully choose how you allocate your time, making sure it aligns with your goals. 

Area of study: Human-computer interaction

My current research focuses on technological and social disconnection in the Arctic. The Arctic setting provides a fascinating opportunity to explore how people’s needs, behaviours, and social dynamics are influenced by remoteness and digital disconnection to design better technology for our increasingly connected everyday lives.

Area of study: Reproductive and sexual health; human biology

I study how social, structural, and environmental contexts of adolescence can affect reproductive development and sexual health outcomes among adolescent girls and young women. As part of my research, I prioritize community-led perspectives in understanding and addressing the sexual and reproductive health needs of adolescent girls. Working with adolescent girls and young women to facilitate conversations on perspectives of their own health needs has been such a privilege - we have so much to learn from youth and young people.

What do you aspire to accomplish during your time at SFU?
My research goals are to ultimately make positive impacts on the sexual and reproductive health and rights of adolescents in both Canada and globally, yet these goals extend to the academic and research communities I am actively engaged with. I aim to create spaces that facilitate strength-based, open conversations about sexual and reproductive health, to continue to provide people with the tools and language to feel empowered to advocate for their own health needs.

Area of study: Biological and forensic anthropology

I am a forensic anthropologist specialized in human taphonomy and cemetery management, and I am currently helping with the curation of a new osteological collection that comprises the remains of unclaimed Portuguese individuals that had been buried in cemeteries in Lisbon.

This is only the second documented skeletal collection in Canada, and even though the remains will only be at SFU by way of temporary loan, it will be an important tool for teaching and research in the institution in the meantime.

What’s your best advice for other postdocs and researchers as they embark on their new projects?
Research and academia are full of uncertainty and challenges. It is important to learn how to overcome the obstacles while still having fun on the way.

Area of study: Aquatic ecology and biogeochemistry

My research focuses on understanding how human activities impact ecosystem functioning in inland waters, like rivers and reservoirs. My specific expertise is in biogeochemical cycling—the movement and transformation of elements like carbon through ecosystems, with a focus on greenhouse gas exchange—which is fascinating.

Through an improved understanding of these greenhouse gas emissions, we can help mitigate their effects on the global climate.

What do you want people to know about your research?
People probably think I spend most of my time in the field collecting samples—but a lot of my time is actually spent analyzing data and writing.

What do you aspire to accomplish during your time at SFU?
 I hope to expand my knowledge and meet new people.

What’s your best advice for other postdocs and researchers as they embark on their new projects?
Rejection is the rule (especially in academia). Try not to take rejection personally and appreciate that it's a sign that you're taking risks.

Area of study: Biotechnology and art

My research fuses feminist technoscience and bioart, reimagining biotechnology through DIY bioprinting and stem cell tissue engineering using my own body materials. I’m fascinated by how messy, personal, taboo biomaterials unsettle “neutral” science, making visible cultural assumptions while opening futures for autonomy and care.

Drawing equally on artistic and scientific expertise, I create hybrid approaches that expand how biotechnology can be imagined and practiced. At SFU, I’m advancing feminist methods: protocols, hacked tools, and speculative futures that challenge dominant systems.