From research to real-world impact: Sarah Wu’s journey to the Alzheimer Society of B.C.

Master's alumnus Sarah Wu shares her journey from academia to her work in dementia care as the Strategic Lead, Research at the Alzheimer Society of B.C. Passionate about improving healthcare outcomes for older adults, she reflects on her career and the rewarding aspects of fostering meaningful change in the field.

1. Can you tell me about yourself and your background?

I’m Sarah Wu, Strategic Lead, Research at the Alzheimer Society of B.C. I grew up in Vancouver and later moved to Ontario, where I studied and lived for many years. I’m a PhD-prepared researcher and focused my graduate training on trying to understand and improve mealtimes in long-term care homes. I’m also a mum to a 5-year-old and that keeps me busy!

2. Why did you choose to pursue this career?

After my undergraduate studies, I worked as a research project manager for a physician focused on reducing delirium in emergency departments for older adults. That experience was eye-opening—I saw firsthand how certain factors could significantly impact older adults’ healthcare outcomes in ways that didn’t necessarily affect younger patients. I realized that meaningful change required a multi-level approach to be effective and sustainable. I found this type of research incredibly motivating and wanted to learn more. That meant more training… and eight years later, here I am!

3. During your graduate studies, how did you narrow down and decide what job you wanted to do post-grad?

Early in my graduate studies, I knew I had to be open to career paths beyond academia. With so many talented doctoral graduates and limited tenure-track positions, I needed to explore alternative opportunities. Many factors influence whether an academic career is feasible, so I actively considered roles in research institutes, government, and other sectors. Keeping an open mind was key.

Career

4. How was the transition from school to your first full-time role as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at UBC?

I was incredibly fortunate to transition directly from my PhD into a postdoctoral trainee position with my mentor, Dr. Jennifer Baumbusch, at UBC’s School of Nursing. Not everyone gets that kind of opportunity, and I’m deeply grateful for it. My doctoral training gave me valuable leadership experience, including teaching and mentoring, so I felt well-prepared for my postdoc. However, I wasn’t in that role for long before moving into my current position with the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s Research and Knowledge Mobilization team.

5. What does a typical day look like for you as the Strategic Lead, Research at the Alzheimer Society of B.C.?

No two days are the same, which is why I love my job. One day, I might be facilitating a focus group with people affected by dementia; the next, I could be delivering a webinar on dementia risk factors or serving on a research advisory committee for a multi-province project on relational end-of-life care. My role is unique because it allows me to conduct research, share knowledge, collaborate with researchers, and explore ways to make research more inclusive for people living with dementia.

At the core of my work is relationship-building—fostering trust, respect, and community. The best and most innovative ideas emerge when people feel comfortable sharing their thoughts. Being part of that process is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job.

6. Are there transferrable skills you learned from school that you use in your job?

My master’s in gerontology gave me a strong foundation in my field, while my doctoral and postdoctoral training helped me understand the academic and research landscape. This background allows me to anticipate the needs of researchers, communicate effectively in their language, and support meaningful collaborations.

From a technical standpoint, my graduate training equipped me with project management, clear communication, critical thinking, and strong writing skills. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned? "Done is better than perfect."

7. What do you enjoy the most about your job? What aspect is the most challenging?

I love the creative process—brainstorming with my team, refining knowledge translation products, and improving processes. Understanding how things work and finding ways to enhance them is incredibly fulfilling.

The biggest challenge? I wish we had more time to explore ideas! There are only so many hours in a week.

8. How do you see the field evolving in the next few years?

I’m still trying to wrap my head around the impact of AI. While I don’t have fully formed thoughts on it yet, I know we need to pay close attention—especially when it comes to policies that safeguard against misinformation.

University Experience

9. What were your favourite courses during university? Did any professors make a big impact on you?

A nutritional anthropology course with Professor Penny Van Esterik at York University shaped my entire research journey—it became the foundation of my master’s, PhD, and postdoctoral work.

Another major influence was Professor Denise Nepveux, now at Duke University’s School of Medicine. She taught a healthcare ethics course from a disability rights perspective. Her ability to create a classroom environment where everyone felt valued and respected was remarkable. She showed us how to engage in critical discussions with empathy—something I still carry with me 20-years later.

10. What advice would you give to current students?

Everyone tells you to build your network—listen to them. It’s not just about LinkedIn posts. Attend networking events, conferences, and forums where you can make real face-to-face connections. When people know who you are and what you’re about, they’re more likely to think of you when opportunities arise.

Also, be open to change. You might set out on one path and find yourself going in a completely different direction. That’s not failure; you’re getting closer to where you’re supposed to be. Grieve the change, trust the process, and onwards you go.