Timothy Fu is both a UAlberta science student and contestant on The Great Canadian Baking Show-where he brings a scientific approach to the art of baking. Image credit: CBC/Love Productions
When University of Alberta science student and The Great Canadian Baking Show contestant Timothy Fu isn't studying or working in the lab, he finds time for a passion that unites science and art: baking.
"Baking is a great fit for me, as baking is at the intersection of science and art," said Fu, a third-year student majoring in biological sciences. "It's great to approach a recipe with precision, considering the purpose behind each ingredient and instruction, while also taking liberty with flavours and design choices."
Fu was one of the remaining five contestants on The Great Canadian Baking Show, and a self-described "super fan" of the British, Australian, and Irish international versions of the show. He recalls that he was ecstatic when he got the call to be a contestant-and had the chance to apply some of his science expertise, as well.
"One skill that I recently picked up on was how to temper chocolate, which involves precise temperature measurements over time, heating, cooling, and reheating chocolate," said Fu. "It definitely brought back memories to my introductory organic chemistry labs."
From beaker to baker
Fu is in his third year at UAlberta, majoring in biological sciences, and plays trombone in the UAlberta Concert Band. He credits his family for helping him find his passion for science and desire to pursue it in university.
"I come from a science-oriented family, so I've always grown up with an interest in science. I remember when my dad took me to his lab as a kid," said Fu. "Seeing and learning about all the complex lab equipment and gadgets only helped to foster that interest."
Ultimately, music, science, and baking keep my university experience from becoming routine, and that makes all the time I put into them worth it!"
While the fierce competition on The Great Canadian Baking Show's chocolate week saw Fu head home, the 19-year-old baking scientist's achievements in both the kitchen and lab are just getting started.
The Great Canadian Baking Show airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. (8:30 NT) on CBC, the CBC TV app and cbc.ca/watch.