Alex Pham

I have come to see science as having two complementary sides: working carefully within existing paradigms, and occasionally trying to extend them with something new. This perspective has been shaped by my experiences in both a biochemistry lab and the entertainment industry. Although these fields appear quite different, they have helped me reflect on how ideas are developed and how novelty emerges.

During my time in the biochemistry lab, I observed how researchers often rely on established processes to identify new natural compounds. Later, as a content acquisition strategist, I noticed that creative work is also influenced by audience expectations and preferences. In both settings, there seems to be an ongoing effort to move beyond these constraints—whether through incremental improvements in scientific methods or by introducing unfamiliar ideas and gradually helping audiences engage with them.

I am interested in learning about organizational innovation and evolution, particularly at the firm level. I seek to understand how innovation processes unfold within organizations and how they may influence internal dynamics, such as shifts in power structures or changes in human resource practices.

I completed my MBA at Sungkyunkwan Graduate School of Business and worked for five years in the entertainment industry, focusing on media content distribution and acquisition. Earlier, I spent two years in a biochemistry lab during high school as part of the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair program, where my project on a potential cancer treatment compound received second prize at the national level. I later chose to move away from laboratory work following medical advice regarding a hereditary risk of lung disease.

Alongside my work in management, I remain interested in developments in science and technology and try to keep up with research across different fields. In my spare time, I also enjoy songwriting and have a growing interest in fashion.