My name is Glib, I have recently moved to Canada to pursue my studies and a career in Biotechnology. Currently, I am alongside a family-like group of scientists at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (Canada), using genetically modified viruses for cancer therapy. Given our expertise in the field, we have been able to quickly shift our focus towards the Covid-19 pandemic. We have tested a multitude of compounds to assess their ability to fight the coronavirus, with promising results.

Aside from my love for science, I am very passionate about electronics. Though I lack professional education in electronics, I have been self-studying using online resources and textbooks.

Most of the equipment we use at the lab are either custom made or old, creating the need for custom solutions for repair/maintenance. Though I am not paid to do so, my hobby enables me to assist with equipment maintenance, allowing us to focus our time and resources on life-saving research.

I don’t have much test gear at home though. I have been using my 3D printer to print face shields for the hospital workers and was featured on central television. I constantly design and print custom tools that help us around the lab.

Given the expense associated with purchasing test equipment, I designed, printed and assembled an adjustable DC power supply, I have been using an Arduino as a signal generator. Though I have a $20 DSO138 oscilloscope, it can’t replace an actual one. I have modified a heating element from an old oven as a load to analyze power supplies, and the multimeter that I own is older than I am. Limited resources have never stopped me from repairing various equipment and finishing many personal and lab projects.

I am very passionate about electronics and will be going back to school for formal education in electronics engineering.

All four tools would help me advance my skills and knowledge in electronics, and will enable me to help with more delicate equipment. They will make for a life-changing addition to my little workshop.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story.

Glib Maznyi