How do you describe your work to people who don’t work in your field?
I often start by saying that I use light to listen to sound, which tends to raise some eyebrows. I work with optomechanical sensors, which involve the interaction between light and mechanical motion. Traditional sensors like microphones, accelerometers and vibrometers are electrical devices with certain limitations. I focus on developing enhanced versions of these tools. My goal is to push the boundaries of these technologies to enable exciting new applications.
What’s one big problem you want to solve through your work?
From ultrasonic cleaning to gas leaks to CNC machining, there are so many physical processes that spew sound into the environment as a natural byproduct. These sounds are often far outside the range of human hearing (and traditional sensors) and therefore go unnoticed and unappreciated. We are working on a new type of ultrasonic microphone that can detect these sounds, hopefully leading to decreased emissions/energy waste, reduced industrial downtime, and ultimately, a safer world!
What does the word “innovation” mean to you?
Within my work, I tend to view innovation as technological development driven by external motivation. That is to say, technology is used as a tool to solve a problem, and technological improvement is a byproduct of the process rather than the end result, which should be a solution to a problem.
What’s been your biggest a-ha moment — in life or work — so far?
I have two.
The first is less of a single “a-ha” moment and more of a gradual realization: no one is as critical of you as you are of yourself. When I started my entrepreneurial journey, I often braced for negative feedback from mentors, potential clients, or peers. Over time, I came to see that the vast majority of people genuinely want to see you succeed and are often willing to help in some way. That shift in perspective was incredibly freeing and empowering.
The second moment came more recently: you can absolutely develop world-class technology in Alberta that rivals what’s created in renowned tech hubs. This hit home during field trials I conducted in Europe, where I saw firsthand how our work stands shoulder-to-shoulder with global innovations. You don’t need deep ties to Silicon Valley to create something meaningful and relevant.
How do you or your team 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?)
For reasons unknown to me, I often have my best ideas while showering. Walking in nature is a close second. With regard to my team, I think our best work has come from simply bouncing ideas off of each other - the act of putting a thought into words often naturally leads to solutions.
What’s your favourite thing about working at the U of A?
I think the U of A has a rare atmosphere that is hard to describe. There are so many experts working in specialized fields in close proximity. I’m often surprised by the types of research going on around campus and how seemingly unrelated topics can have ties at a fundamental level.
Do you have a role model at the U of A? How have they influenced you?
My role model would have to be my former supervisor, Dr. Ray DeCorby. His patience and willingness to tackle any problem have certainly made an impact on the way I approach challenges, both in work and in life.
In Shape: The University Strategic Plan 2023-33, the University of Alberta 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? (This could be in your research, with your colleagues, in your community or in your personal life.)
Ultracoustics, my startup company, has deep roots in the University of Alberta, from the fundamental research behind our technology to the degrees of those involved. Through engaging with the Faculty of Engineering Co-op Office, we are committed to providing meaningful experience to aspiring engineers through internship programs. The field of commercial optomechanical sensors is also relatively new, and we have the opportunity to put Alberta on the map!
What’s next for you? Do you have any new projects on the horizon?
I’m glad you asked! Ultracoustics is preparing to release a commercial product. If anyone is interested, you can follow along with our journey here.
