My Research
Entrepreneurship and Digital Capabilities are the two pillars of my research. While entrepreneurship is my primary focus, I employ digital capabilities as the guiding concept in my studies.
I believe there is significant scholarly work to be done in understanding digital entrepreneurship and innovation from a capability-based perspective. Specifically, I am interested in investigating how various digital capabilities enable startups and business incubators to recognize and extract value from digital technologies.
Two quick lessons learned to share:
Effective Use of External and Internal Digital Tools: Startups need to balance the use of ready-made digital tools with the creation of their own custom technologies. This strategy helps them benefit from available solutions while distinguishing themselves with unique value propositions.
Quick Application of Digital Knowledge: It’s crucial not only to stay updated with the latest digital advancements but also to apply this knowledge swiftly. Quick action allows companies to capitalize on new technologies before they become commonplace.
Education
2015-2022
PhD
Queen's University
Area Group: Digital Technology (Previously MIS)
Thesis: Harnessing Digital Technologies for Entrepreneurial Innovation
Supervisors: Dr. Yolande Chan and Dr. James Denford (as of Aug. 2021)
2013-2015
MSc
University of British Columbia
Area Group: Management Information Systems (MIS)
Thesis: The Impact of Users’ Awareness and Self-efficacy of Privacy Control Options
Supervisors: Dr. Izak Benbasat and Dr. Hasan Cavusoglu
Awards and Honors
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Nominated for the Governor General's Academic Gold Medals Competition by the Graduate Program in Management | Queen's University 2023
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Author of “Business Outstanding Thesis” | Notation on Official Transcript | Queen’s University 2022
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PhD Student Research Excellence Award | Smith Business School | Queen's University 2019
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D.D Monieson Doctoral Fellowship | Queen's University 2019
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Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Fellow | Queen’s Innovation Centre | Queen's University 2018
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Alan R. Dennis Doctoral Award | Smith Business School | Queen's University 2018
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First Place in the 3-minute Thesis Competition | Smith Business School | Queen's University 2017
My Story
I spent my early years with my grandparents in a small fishing village in Shandong Province, mainland China. My parents were working in three shifts in another province, and I only saw them sporadically until I was seven. Growing up, my favorite pastime was waiting for the neighbors to return from the sea so I could help the women dry small fish on their rooftops. Due to a local tradition that barred girls from boarding fishing boats, I was determined to find my own path to explore the world beyond my village.
As an undergraduate, I aspired to become a professional esports player. However, I soon realized that while I had the passion, I lacked the innate talent. This realization steered me towards a career where perseverance and innovation are rewarded, and where the environment is continually refreshed with new, creative challenges. Today, I am thrilled to be a part of the research faculty at Ivey Business School, where I am engaged daily in conducting exciting and impactful studies.
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities in the realm of startups and business incubators. Let's connect.