I am a PhD student in the Science and Technology Studies (STS) program at Virginia Tech. Due to my past experience in engineering and connections with practicing engineers, my interest has been the study of engineers and engineering activities, teaching engineering students about the history and contemporary issues of their disciplines, and engaging with the public on ethical and social issues related to technology and engineering. This website serves as a platform to showcase what I have in the aspects of research, teaching, service and my life.
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My Trajectory |
In 2012, I made a critical decision leaving engineering after I got a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from National Taiwan University. Although during my time in college, I was recognized by peers and professors as an outstanding engineering student outstanding in both academic research and hands-on practice in engineering, I became interested in studying sociology and later found the interdisciplinary field of STS as my intellectual home to straddle what C. P. Snow termed as the two cultures—science and the humanities—and facilitate conversations and close the gap in between.
In 2013, I began my PhD career in the program of Science and Technology Studies (STS) at Virginia Tech. My engineering background has been instrumental in framing my own research questions, teaching philosophies and service commitments. Many crucial insights and inspirations could not have come to my mind easily if I had not been an engineer. As a person previously trained as an electrical engineer and having engineering knowledge and experience, my research mainly investigates issues in engineering and technology from the views of both an engineer and a social scientist/historian. |
My Objectives |
My short-termed goal beyond my PhD degree is a faculty position in a university where I will dedicate time and energy to undergraduate teaching, graduate advisership and my own research an service. I believe a healthy balance between the three aspects is key to professional developments when every aspect can build up another, as illustrated in the following diagram:
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