Samuel Fernandes

“Working on a solar lighting project led to my interest in renewable energy, and ANU’s reputation in solar energy brought me to Canberra.”

Samuel Fernandes’ interest in renewable energy has taken him from Mumbai to Australia and now to America. Samuel graduated from his local university, The University of Mumbai with a bachelor of Electronics and Communications Engineering before he moved to Australia to study at ANU.

It was the University’s international reputation in solar energy that was the deciding factor for Samuel.

“Canberra is a fantastic place to study and work, I love Canberra.”

Samuel found that living at ANU Graduate House was ideal for studying as it was very quiet. He found a balance by ensuring he filled his calendar with plenty of social gatherings with his peers.

Completing his Masters in Systems Engineering (Renewable Energy) in 2011, Samuel was certain his qualifications from ANU would be a valuable asset in the workforce.

“I have a world class university education, the prestige of the finest University in Australia and the reputation of ANU in the renewable energy space.”

Samuel joined the ranks of ANU staff after his graduation, bringing his enthusiasm for renewable energy to roles with the ANU Space Management team and the ANU Energy and Sustainability office. Samuel also created the start-up company, Micro Energy Labs Pty Ltd during his time at ANU.

Samuel has recently moved to the US to work in the Research and Development laboratory at the University of Berkeley, but ANU still holds fond memories and valuable contacts for him.

“I am still in touch with teachers (for references!) and other friends I have met throughout the university, not just from Engineering.”

Samuel is a strong advocate for the support of scholarships and prizes having first received funding assistance from the Indian government through the Vidya Jyoti Scholarship, which allowed him to move to ANU. He was also the recipient of the Innovation ACT Business planning prize (2011) and after his graduation, the ATP Innovations prize (2012) and Discovery Translation Fund Grant (2012) through ANU Connect Ventures.

“It is great when people invest in your work and validate your ideas. It is motivating to have that support, it was tremendously beneficial for me.”

When asked if he has any advice for those considering studying engineering at ANU, Samuel recommends…

“Dare, be yourself and challenge the status quo”