Stars in Our Constellation: Shae Zhao
Shae joins Luminous as Consultant
Shae Zhao is a dynamic researcher specializing in market and user experience research. With a Master’s in Behavioral and Decision Sciences from the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor’s in Hospitality Management from New York University, Shae excels in leveraging data analytics, statistical analysis, and behavioral science frameworks to drive impactful user research.
Shae’s experience includes leading projects on referral program dynamics, social media effectiveness analysis, and user strategy, combining academic rigor with practical research skills. As the founder of a Sexual Wellness Education Program, Shae demonstrates a passion for promoting equal access to care and health education.
Q & A with Shae Zhao
Q: What experience and expertise do you bring to Luminous?
A: I come from a background in behavioral science and user research, with experience in designing and analyzing strategies that nudge behavior change and enhance decision-making processes. Additionally, I founded an online wellness education program aimed at providing knowledge and unbiased information about GYN diseases and STIs, particularly to reduce anxiety and fear among Chinese women. This reflects my commitment to leveraging behavioral science to improve health outcomes. I am eager to apply my expertise and hands-on experience in patient engagement to develop actionable, impactful solutions for our clients at Luminous.
Q: What motivates you about Luminous and its mission?
A: I am drawn to Luminous’ commitment to improving health equity and embedding patient centricity into its work. Health equity is a fundamental issue in the healthcare system that desperately needs to be addressed, and it’s encouraging to know that Luminous is actively pushing this initiative forward. Additionally, the focus on patient centricity at Luminous is particularly motivating. Putting patients at the center of everything we do ensures that our efforts are truly impactful and meaningful. This approach aligns with my personal values of empathy and compassion in healthcare, and I'm excited about the opportunity to contribute to creating positive experiences and outcomes for patients.
Q: What types of projects do you find most rewarding, and why?
A: Reflecting on my previous work experiences, I found the sexual wellness promotion program to be the most rewarding project. In this role, I developed informational articles aimed at promoting sexual health awareness among women. Beyond content creation, I actively engaged with our audience, addressing their inquiries and concerns regarding sexual health, STIs, and the mental health aspects associated with these topics.
What made this project particularly fulfilling was its direct impact on empowering women to take charge of their sexual health and well-being. Witnessing the increased awareness and improved health outcomes among our audience reinforced my passion for projects that have a tangible, beneficial impact on individuals' lives.
Q: What are the big challenges & opportunities you’re seeing related to patients, life sciences, and impact?
A: The biggest challenge I see is the level of health literacy. Health literacy—the ability of individuals to access, understand, and use health information to make informed decisions about their health—remains a significant barrier to achieving optimal health outcomes.
This challenge presents a multifaceted opportunity for improvement. By enhancing health literacy through targeted education, accessible resources, and clear communication strategies, we can empower patients to actively participate in their healthcare journey. This not only improves individual health outcomes but also contributes to more efficient healthcare delivery and resource allocation.
Q: What is a quote or mantra that guides you?
A: “We can be blind to the obvious, and we are also blind to our blindness.” ― Daniel Kahneman, Thinking, Fast and Slow
About Luminous
Luminous is a consultancy that partners with global life sciences organizations, meaningfully connecting lab and life to achieve better outcomes for patients, business, and society. Founded in 2005, we empower our clients with deep and revealing insights that can be leveraged across the development pathway through to commercialization. Our work drives healthcare solutions that are truly patient-centric.