A common sentiment we hear from clients is how pleased they are with our personalized approach to their project needs. Whether it concerns assay conditions or data delivery, our core strength as a niche CRO lies in our ability to adapt to the requirements of each project we manage. We wouldn’t be able to do this without our tenured and dedicated staff, so we would like to introduce them to you over the next couple of months. The first spotlight post features Steve Placko, one of Analiza’s Senior Analytical Chemists. If you have requested data for one of our HPLC-based assays, then you have certainly worked with Steve. Enjoy getting to know more about the man behind your data!
When did you begin working for Analiza?
I started at Analiza as an intern in 2011 while I was finishing my degree at the University of Akron. I was offered a full-time position once I graduated in 2012.
Why did you pursue a career in Chemistry?
I have always been good at math. I’m fascinated by science and I like working with my hands, so working in a chemistry lab was a natural choice for me.
What are your strengths as an Analytical Chemist?
I’m observant, meticulous, and I have a knack for recognizing patterns and small changes in things. I’m also very organized and have a love for problem-solving and trouble-shooting.
What assays do you routinely run? What instrumentation do you work with the most?
I can be a “jack of all trades,” but my specialty is HPLC. I handle our routine, HPLC-based assays like kinetic and thermodynamic solubility, and I also perform the custom assays that use HPLC. I also perform our PAMPA assay, regardless of detection method (CLND, HPLC-UV, HPLC-MS).
What is your favorite thing about your job?
Everything! I love what I do and I’m good at it. Although becoming an Analytical Chemist was not what I originally planned to do after graduating, I can’t think of anything else that I would rather be doing.
Tell me about a grade-school science fair project you participated in.
One of my favorites was from 8th grade. My presentation was about the triboluminescent properties of Wint-O-Green Lifesavers; when crushed, they emit a small amount of visible light.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of the lab you can find me spending time with friends, family, or my dog. I have a 2-year-old Goldendoodle named Wade that I’m overly attached to and spoil rotten. I really enjoy being outdoors and being in nature.
What is your favorite TV show?
I don’t have much time to watch TV or movies but when I do, I enjoy watching mindless comedy to shut my mind off from thinking.
What is your favorite book?
Anything written by Stephen King.
If you could have a superpower, which one would you choose?
I’m a huge fan of Marvel’s X-Men and I’ve admittedly day-dreamed about becoming either Wolverine (super strength and fast healing) or Quicksilver (super speed).
Tell me something on your bucket list.
I hope to see the Aurora Borealis and I really want to kayak in a bioluminescent lake.
What’s a random fact about yourself?
I’m left-handed.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I’m able to effortlessly write words upside-down, backwards or their mirror image.
Do you have a favorite meme?
