Doris Chow

CIHR Health System Impact Fellow Dr. Doris Chow is exploring the interaction between eye movements and optic flow perception, to develop a test of motion sensitivity using eye movements in aging and patient populations.

Picture for Doris Chow
Home town
Hong Kong
Country
Hong Kong
Research location
UBC Vancouver
Department
Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
Supervisor(s)
Miriam Spering
Year PDF started

Research topic

Visual Perception & Eye Movements

Research Description

I am broadly interested in how our brain enables us to perceive our multisensory and dynamic environment coherently. My current research explores the interaction between eye movements and optic flow perception, to develop a test of motion sensitivity using eye movements in aging and patient populations. This work has been supported by UBC Peter Wall Institute for Advanced Studies, Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research, and Canadian Institutes of Health Research. Before UBC, I investigated the development of multisensory perception between vision, audition, and touch, using psychophysics, electroencephalography, and pupillometry.

Why did you decide to pursue a postdoctoral fellowship at UBC? Did you consider other opportunities?

UBC being one of the largest universities in North America has lots to offer regarding opportunities for research, networking, and professional development. This was one reason. Personally, I just love the UBC Vancouver campus for its nature (I had a chance to visit prior to applying for postdoc positions).

What specifically attracted you to your research group?

I was mostly driven by curiosity about the subject discipline. While I have used eye-tracking technology prior to coming to UBC, I felt my understanding of the depth and breadth of eye movement research was limited. So I came here to work with my advisor, who is an expert in eye movement research, and who has since broadened my academic scope.

What advice do you have for new postdoctoral fellows?

My biggest advice is to acknowledge that starting a new position is a huge transition! Be kind to yourself about the slow start to get your new research up and running. Spend time to acquire and develop skills and healthy habits in research and beyond.

What do you like to do for fun?

My partner and I share our passion for experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen! I also enjoy walking.

What is the most enjoyable aspect of your postdoctoral fellowship?

Thinking, learning, researching, and sharing what I have learned. I also really appreciate the peer-mentoring support I receive from members of my research group as well as from the wider postdoc community at UBC.

What does receiving this award mean for your career?

This award has given me the opportunity to develop my research program related to a vision health issue of interest to Canadians. The time and space afforded by this award will allow me to create new ideas and to grow a career that is personally rewarding.

What do you think the next step in your career will be?

I am open to translating my skills and experience in careers within and beyond academia. Regardless of what the next step would be, I want to continue to learn and expand my comfort zone.