Purdy is an associate professor in the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology, academic officer, and assistant dean of equity, diversity and inclusion in the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry at the University of Alberta. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) at the University of Alberta in 1993, followed by a master of science in medical microbiology and immunology in 1997. Purdy has held several administration and leadership positions, including MLS program director and assistant dean for graduate student affairs in the Office of Advocacy & Wellbeing. Her interests are focused on discovering novel ways to incorporate simulation training into curriculum, workplace racism, and student-centred approaches to wellbeing.