# Key Points from ##hplusroadmap IRC Discussion (June 26, 2012)

• Researchers discussed open access to NIH-funded research and shared a special issue of AI EDAM journal, alongside the first collection of scientific papers on mind uploading in the International Journal of Machine Consciousness.

• A promising cancer treatment called OncoVEX was highlighted—an engineered oncolytic virus developed by BioVex carrying an immune-boosting component, considered one of the most promising late-stage cancer drugs at the time.

• A DIY biology innovation was shared: a resistor-based thermocycler controlled by Arduino costing only $50-75, featuring a wood laser-cut box and aluminum block capable of running PCR cycles in just 3 minutes each.

• The group discussed a 3D printing technology using a heated syringe extruder capable of printing with real sugar and chocolate, with the researcher (jmil) planning to open-source the designs and potentially commercialize the extruder.

• Employment challenges for biology graduates were analyzed, noting significant salary disparities between academic and industry positions ($40k for entry-level BS positions in industry versus significantly less in academia).

• The conversation touched on citizen science competitions, with Ryan Bethencourt and Derek Jacoby winning the Assay Depot challenge, with Bethencourt working on ALS research through "Halpin Neurosciences."

• Participants discussed research on electromagnetic field (EMF) sensitivity, particularly focusing on extremely low frequencies (ELF) and their potential biological effects.