Motivation:

I have recently started my Ph.D. at UCT in the department of medicine. My research project is mostly computational and requires a high-performance PC with good specs. I am analyzing large genomic datasets and running power-intensive tools on the command line. My old computer is currently unfunctional and the computer that I have borrowed from the University does not allow me to run most of the tools and it is just a temporary loan. A computer donation would help me to analyze my data which will contribute to the successful completion of my degree. Furthermore, because lockdown has forced the implementation of working from home I am unable to access any of the university facilities. I am also unable to travel to campus in any way as I live far from campus and taking public transport at the moment would put me in danger of being exposed to COVID-19. I started my Ph.D. around May I didn't get enough time to apply for available funding to possibly buy a computer. Furthermore, the funding I currently have is sufficient for my basic needs. I have found it challenging to make progress in my project, I constantly have to deal with trying to fix a problem with the computer I currently have rather than focusing on my project. I have attached my proof of registration, as I only registered during the lockdown and was not able to make a student card. I hope this is in order. Your assistance will be highly appreciated. Kind regards,