Louisa Ho

About me

I was born/grew up in: Yanbu, Saudi Arabia

I now live in: Ancaster, ON, Canada

I completed my training/education at: PhD from University of Toronto

What I do at work

In order to do my job well I have to spend a lot of time getting to know Laurier's researchers. I need to know what they are doing and to learn how their research is addressing the world's most pressing issues. I also spend time meeting with businesses, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and government funding officials to keep an ear on the ground of emerging technology trends. To be able to understand a broad range of scientific research on a fundamental level, I am constantly using critical thinking skills and independent learning practices. I also translate technical concepts to plain language that anyone can understand. A background in STEM has given me the necessary knowledge to understand science research from all disciplines at the basic level. Even if I am completely dumbfounded by the research, I have the ability to break down the technical jargon or ask the clarification questions needed to effectively communicate this work to others.

My career path is

I thought I was going to be a cancer researcher. After receiving my PhD, I realized that I loved talking about science, but didn't like the slow pace of lab work or focusing on just one thing. While I was trying to figure out what was out there for me I took a chance on an internship that I wasn't sure would work out for me. This led me to the technology transfer profession, which kept me connected with the cutting edge of scientific research and allowed me to work in diverse fields and problems.

I am motivated by

I am always learning new things and meeting new people. As a result, I have diverse perspectives to each problem and this continues to amaze and inspire me. The possibilities of new technologies that I encounter excite me. It is great to work with entrepreneurs who are trying to disrupt the status quo and scientists that are trying to understand how the world works. Seeing how an idea that was explored though research can become something that actually solves real-life problems is what makes my career personally rewarding.

How I affect peoples’ lives

Companies are always trying to create a better product or identify a better solution to an existing problem. However, they are not always familiar with emerging research. Sometimes researchers find something new that no one would expect. I help connect the two groups - academia and industry - to let them know, "hey, there is an opportunity here for you to collaborate and help each other!"

Outside of work I

I like to play video games, cook, and binge watch some Netflix shows with family and friends. I love running; it gives you that time to be by yourself with your thoughts and challenges you to make that next goal.

My advice to others

Do what you love, take advantage of the opportunities that come your way, and don't be afraid to try something new.