JEREMY de Leon, a 28-year-old Filipino engineer, recently made waves by winning the Philippine leg of the James Dyson Award for his innovative creation, the “Make-roscope.”
This device, small enough to fit on a keychain, can transform a smartphone or tablet’s front camera into a functional microscope.
Beyond being a brilliant inventor, Jeremy’s journey is driven by his passion for helping others and bringing science closer to Filipino students.
His “Make-roscope” can actually give him a whopping P2 million windfall if he is adjudged the winner in the James Dyson Award’s international and sustainability finals on Nov. 15, or P330,000 as a runner-up.
Jeremy’s inventive spirit can be traced back to his childhood. From disassembling toys to understanding their inner workings to customizing Crush Gears and Beyblades, his early experiences laid the foundation for his inventive mindset. He learned the value of innovation as a means of making life easier and more impactful for people.
The “Make-roscope” emerged as a solution to address a critical issue in the Philippines: the lack of laboratory access for millions of students. With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, traditional classroom-based learning became increasingly challenging, particularly in subjects like biology and life sciences. Jeremy’s device aimed to bridge this gap and enable remote science education.
What sets the “Make-roscope” apart is its accessibility and ease of use. Its portability and utilization of a smartphone’s front camera streamline the microscopy process. Users can simply adjust its flexible arms for better clarity, and it’s made waterproof using food-grade silicone. This innovative approach eliminates the need for additional attachments or awkward positioning, making it a user-friendly solution for students and teachers alike.
The journey of the “Make-roscope” began with Jeremy’s participation in the Department of Science and Technology’s #PinoyInventor TikTok challenge in June 2021. He won the challenge by creating a DIY microscope from a laser lens, hairclip, and his mobile phone. This experience led him to realize the need for a more accessible and user-friendly DIY microscope for children.
With a modest seed grant of P25,000, Jeremy embarked on the development of a prototype. He invested in silicon molds, 3D printers, and essential 3D printing software. Jeremy also delved into the principles of single-lens microscopy to ensure that even children could appreciate and use the “Make-roscope” without being overwhelmed by its complexities.
The positive reception on TikTok and inquiries about availability spurred Jeremy to approach the Department of Science and Technology’s Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI). A three-month process ensued, during which he conducted an interest survey on TikTok to demonstrate market demand. This effort secured a P125,000 grant from DOST-TAPI, enabling the production of 3,000 “Make-roscopes.”
Jeremy’s dedication and innovation did not stop there. He continuously improved the “Make-roscope” based on feedback from the initial users. The material, shape, size, and the inclusion of a special lens were all enhanced to optimize its functionality.
However, Jeremy faced challenges along the way. Navigating lockdowns to procure materials and limited funds presented significant hurdles. But the enthusiastic response on social media and the support of his alma mater, Mapua University, kept him motivated.
Winning the James Dyson Award was a significant milestone for Jeremy. It brought him one step closer to his dream of providing laboratory tools to those in need. The award also garnered support from individuals who purchased “Make-roscopes” to contribute to his cause.
Jeremy’s future plans involve further enhancing the “Make-roscope” by incorporating its light source, partnering with educational groups to integrate it into learning modules, and collecting data on its impact in schools. With the James Dyson exposure, he hopes to extend his reach to more rural areas and establish international partnerships.
In the end, Jeremy’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation and the potential for a single invention to make a lasting impact on education and accessibility. His dedication to helping others and inspiring young minds to explore the world of science exemplifies the spirit of innovation and positive change.
(Filed by Jr Amigo/ai/mnm)