How did you develop your research interests in trading bots and healthcare?
My interest in trading bots originated from my own experience in developing and deploying them. This practical involvement made me question the impact these bots could have on human traders, particularly in the largely unregulated online environment such as the cryptocurrency market. I began to investigate whether trading bots could potentially harm human traders and how we might craft policies that manage these bots effectively while balancing the protection of human traders with the benefits that automated systems can offer to the market. My focus on healthcare developed from my experience as a government official in South Korea, where I was involved in policymaking for healthcare. I witnessed the immense pressure doctors face, leading to burnout and fatigue, a challenge not only in South Korea but globally. This exposure made me acutely aware of the critical need for innovative solutions to improve healthcare delivery. I became intrigued by how technology, particularly algorithms, could be leveraged to enhance medical practice, making it more efficient while upholding ethical standards. This dual focus on trading bots and healthcare reflects my commitment to exploring how technology can be both a powerful tool and a responsible partner in complex and high-stakes environments.
What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in this program? How did you overcome them?
One of the major challenges I have encountered is bridging the gap between academic research and practical application. Often, practitioners view academic work as too theoretical, while academia demands rigorous methods and strong theoretical contributions. To navigate this, I have made it a priority to engage with practitioners early in my research process. By listening to their needs and integrating their insights, I have been able to shape my research questions to address real-world concerns without compromising academic integrity or methodological rigor. Additionally, involving practitioners as co-authors or collaborating closely with them has allowed my research to directly respond to practical needs while maintaining the high standards required in academia. This approach has enabled me to effectively balance the expectations of both the academic community and industry professionals.
Who do you consider your community at Temple, and how have they impacted your journey?
I would say that my community extends beyond my MIS concentration, and even beyond the Fox School of Business. The interdisciplinary collaboration here is invaluable, and I have worked with professors across various disciplines, which has enriched my research perspective. My advisors, Dr. Jason Thatcher and Dr. Jaehwuen Jung, have also been instrumental as well. Dr. Thatcher, who continues to advise me after moving to the University of Colorado Boulder, has guided me in seeing the broader impact of my research and crafting its narrative. Meanwhile, Dr. Jung has ensured that my work is grounded in rigorous scientific methodology and replicable practices. Together, they’ve provided me with a well-rounded approach that blends strong storytelling with scientific precision.
