Humans of LMP: Paul Yip

Each month we speak to a member of the Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology community and find out more about them as part of an initiative from our Wellness, Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Committee (WIDE).

Visit the Humans of LMP page to read more stories and nominate yourself or others to be featured.

This month we feature Co-Director for the postdoctoral training program in Clinical Chemistry, Dr. Paul Yip who was awarded the LMP Sustained Excellence in Education Award this month at the LMP Annual Celebration of Excellence.

How long have you been at LMP and what does your role involve?

I joined LMP in 2006 as Lecturer at a time when there were fewer academic opportunities than today for Biochemists. Fortunately, the department has done much to support my endeavors as well as others who are mainly in clinical service. As a result, I’ve held many roles related to education ranging from teaching to course coordinator and now as Co-Director for the postdoctoral training program in Clinical Chemistry. I’m also part of the LMP Quality Council where I lead a talented group that works on the harmonization of laboratory quality indicators.

What led you to pursue your current career path?  

The study of chemistry began as a childhood fascination. I had not connected it with the life sciences until my undergraduate studies where I changed my program 3 times until I landed on Biochemistry. Thanks to my professor, Marian Packham, she encouraged me to consider graduate studies. That I could apply the pursuit of knowledge to better health and well-being at the highest level has been the core of what I do as a practicing Clinical Biochemist. My desire to pass on even a bit of this discipline to others gives me immense satisfaction. 

What working achievement or initiative are you most proud of? 

I was on the organizing committee of the joint clinical chemistry conference, namely AACC and CSCC, in 2017.  It was a record setting meeting where 21,000 attendees from around the world came to San Diego, which also included a memorable gathering for LMP alumni and friends. In that moment everyone could see the past, present, and future of the profession was very bright where many colleagues went on to accomplish great things. 

What was the best career advice you ever received?  

Become Mister or Madam—Something. 

What has been an important learning experience in your life? 

To remember the people that I meet both formal and informal. It’s a small world and you never know when someone reappears.  Social media may help but personal connection matters most. 

Who is an influential person in your life and why?

My father was passionate of his work but never imposed it on the family.  Although he let me choose any field of study, he did not want me to pursue a PhD probably because of career prospects or the length of time. He did not stop me though, and saw that I was happy doing what I enjoyed.  I managed to defend my thesis and enter into the Clinical Chemistry training program shortly before he passed away.  Even though my father had little to do with science, I see the beauty in the other side of life.  

What would it surprise people to know about you?

My house has had every kind of pet. I’m not a pet person but my family loves having creatures from all walks of life. 

What activities do you enjoy doing outside of work? 

Cycling. There is so much to explore and you can get to places on your own. 

What is your favourite album, film and novel? 

No favorites, but I could certainly enjoy these over and over again and yet find something illuminating each time: Fully Completely (The Hip), 2001: A Space Odyssey (Stanley Kubrick), Animal Farm (George Orwell). 

Who would be your dream dinner guests?

Charles M. Schulz, Yousuf Karsh, Frank Lloyd Wright, and my father. 

Where/what is your favourite place? 

Twin Falls, Maui.

If you were stuck on a deserted island but had all your basic needs taken care of (i.e. food and water), what two items would you bring with you and why?

• Telescope to see the stars at night and find help if needed! 

• Ukulele for everything else: relax, reflect, emote, etc.