The Research Tower is home to state-of-the-art microscopes and next-generation DNA sequencers. But for one group of employees, the most important piece of equipment may be on the third floor.
There, in unfinished “shell” space, resides OMRF’s one and only Ping- Pong table.
Donated by Steve Prescott, the table plays host to daily games among OMRF staffers looking for a quick break between assignments or laboratory experiments. “It’s a great way to have fun and get away from the stresses of the day,” says Gaurav Kumar. “It’s also a great way to make new friends.”
Gaurav heads OMRF’s Table Tennis Club, which now counts almost 30 members. Like Gaurav, many of the other regulars are seasoned players: Biji Kurien, Hal Scofield, Bob Axtell and Zijian Pan. But the group also counts many novices, including some who’d never picked up a paddle before setting foot on the third floor.
The games range from relaxed to competitive, and Gaurav stresses that there’s room for everyone at OMRF’s Ping-Pong table. “It’s all about having fun,” he says.
The club’s goal, he says, is to continue to expand its ranks. “We welcome beginners and veterans alike. We’d be thrilled if you’d consider joining us.”
