Chris Murray

About me

I was born/grew up in: I was born in Guelph, Ontario and grew up in Orillia, Ontario. I went back to Guelph for university, then worked in the Greater Toronto Area following grad school. I returned to Orillia to work for Lakehead University in 2010.

I now live in: Orillia, Ontario

I completed my training/education at:  I completed my BSc., MSc and PhD in Physics at the University of Guelph.

What I do at work

I teach undergraduate physics and conduct research in biopolymers and environmental technology. I also teach special topics in science to professional year education students. I have recently conducted research on masks used to protect the general public and front-line workers from diseases like COVID-19. I also work with a First Nations community to help increase their ability to measure changes in weather.

I spend about as much time leading science outreach as I do on teaching and research put together. I guide several programs with Let's Talk Science - Lakehead Orillia, to bring science programming to students from Kindergarten to Grade 12.

My career path is

I knew from an early age I wanted to be a scientist. However, throughout high school I was also drawn to art and technology courses. I found these areas allowed me to create. I thought that maybe I would become an engineer. I didn't know for certain what an engineer did. I enjoyed physics so I decided to study that at university. Even though I did not become an engineer, I still end up making things. I create and build new technologies all the time in my role as a scientist working at a small university.

I am motivated by

I find interaction with young learners the most rewarding and exciting part of my job. I also enjoy solving problems using do-it-yourself methods.

How I affect peoples’ lives

I believe my greatest impact on people is through my teaching and outreach. That said, I have also invented several technologies to reduce pollution. These technologies are used all over the world.

Outside of work I

I enjoy spending time with my family.

My advice to others

Don't avoid challenges that might stand between you and your goals.