Darren Dahl

Take Your Creativity Wherever It Goes

'The future of my field is to enable both companies and consumers themselves to make better choices.'

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Darren Dahl is a Professor at the UBC Sauder School of Business. We asked everything from why he chose his field of study to what’s on his playlist in hopes of giving you a better understanding of what goes on outside the lab for one of the best minds in Canadian research.

What inspired you to become a scientist?
One of my undergrad profs indicated to me that I was well suited for life as a professor/scientist. I hadn’t considered it and the comment made me explore the option…and here I am.

What do you like most about being a scientist?
The freedom to pursue my curiosity – I am able to discover and explore.

What do you envision in the future of your field?
A better understanding of consumers – enabling both companies and consumers themselves to make better choices.

What advice would you give young researchers?
Pursue what you are passionate about – don’t follow trends, but rather explore the questions that really resonate for you.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?
In my career? probably mentoring 9 PhD students in finishing their degrees and becoming successful in academia. With respect to scholarship – I am proud of the work I have contributed to understanding creativity (specifically consumer creativity)…

What do you read?
Books related to my areas of interest – creativity, branding, company histories.

What’s on your Ipod?
I am a luddite and don’t have a current ipod…

If you could meet any historical figure who would it be and why?
Leonardo da Vinci – a true renaissance man that could do it all – how is it possible to be amazing at so many different things?

If you could do any profession other than your own what would it be?
Professional sports.

What do you like to do for fun?
I like outdoor activities – specifically running, skiing, softball.