Max Besarab

During his second year studying at Langara, instructor Dr. Stephanie Cheung, introduced Max Besarab to her colleague, Dr. Ji Yong Yang. Ever since, Besarab has been working with Dr. Yang on feral hops research. Besarab’s role in the project is to analyze the chemical properties of the feral hops, such as terpenes and the bittering acids, which determine the flavour and aroma of beer.

Besarab and the hops research team are also developing new techniques to investigate the most efficient and accurate methods for extracting terpene oils from hop cones. He is investigating two methods of extracting terpene oils: solvent extraction and steam distillation. The goal of this study is to discover which method is more efficient and effective in extracting terpene oils from hop plants.

He is planning to attend medical school and has found that working with ARC has helped him to develop lab skills and the work ethic that would enhance his application. “I want to contribute to the research, to the team's work, and contribute to ARC's success in any way I can,” says Besarab.