Profile
Viktor Doychinov
My CV
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Education:
I went to school in my home country of Bulgaria. It was the equivalent of a local comprehensive school, a combination of a secondary school and a sixth form.
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Qualifications:
I got the equivalent of GCSE in Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Chemistry. I also studied English and Spanish, Bulgarian Language and Literature, and PE until I graduated from school.
I then got an undergrad degree (BEng) in Telecommunications from the Technical University of Sofia, before coming to the UK to do a postgrad (MSc) in London.
After that, I got an offer to do a PhD at the University of Leeds, where I now work as a research engineer.
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Work History:
I worked for a few mobile phone companies, similar to O2/Vodafone, back in Bulgaria, before coming to the UK. I supported computer server rooms, worked on computer network cabling, and helped with writing documentation.
In the UK, I started my first research position shortly after completing my PhD, and have been doing that ever since.
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Current Job:
I am currently a Research Fellow at the University of Leeds. That means that I work as a researcher on several projects. I also help students sometimes, and do a bit of teaching every now and then.
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About Me:
I am a tinkerer at heart – I enjoy finding out how things work, making new things or improving existing things, and learning new things. I also enjoy finding out what other people do!
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Read more
I live in Leeds with my girlfriend and our African Pygmy Hedgehog, Medli. Both of us work at the University of Leeds, and we enjoy meeting at lunchtime for a chat and a board game. I am a very big sci-fi and fantasy fan and love reading and watching anything in that genre. In my free time I like practising calligraphy and folding origami models.
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My Typical Day:
I start work around 10 am, and work until 7 or 8 pm. I spend an hour or two reading about new things in my work. Replying to e-mails is also important to do during the day.
I do most of my work on my computer. I also spend a few hours in the lab setting up equipment, taking measurements, and making sure instruments work well. -
What I'd do with the prize money:
I would put the money towards running a High Altitude Balloon project with the Code Club I volunteer at. I promise we’ll make the photos available for everyone to see!
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My Interview
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How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Curious, experimental, friendly
What did you want to be after you left school?
An engineer! I wanted to solve problems, and make things that are useful to other people.
Were you ever in trouble at school?
A few times, but nothing serious - I was late for classes, missed a few homework deadlines, that sort of thing.
Who is your favourite singer or band?
I enjoy listening to electronic music, for example Kavinsky.
What's your favourite food?
Linda McCartney's Vegetarian Sausages!
If you had 3 wishes for yourself what would they be? - be honest!
I would have to think long and hard - I have read too many stories about mischievous genies!
Tell us a joke.
Did you hear about the new restaurant on the Moon? They've got great food, but no atmosphere.
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