2024 Winner: International Alumnus Award (Griffith Sciences)
Master of Science (Biotechnology), Class of 2008
Samuel is the Chief Operating Officer of the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing Hub, an agile robotics, AI, and design hub for the manufacturing industry. An active mentor, Samuel is currently establishing a National Manufacturing Capability Network, a funded initiative by the Commonwealth.
Congratulations, how did you feel when you found out you won an Outstanding Alumni Award?
Receiving the Outstanding Alumni Award was an incredibly humbling and exhilarating experience. It felt like a culmination of years of hard work and dedication, not only in my professional journey but also in my efforts to give back to the community. It reinforced my commitment to making a positive impact in my field and beyond.
What does a typical day/week at work look like for you?
A typical week is dynamic and multifaceted. I start my days with strategic meetings, often with my team or key stakeholders, to align on objectives and progress. Midweek, I oversee ongoing projects, ensure they are on track, and address any challenges. Fridays are often reserved for reflection, planning, and mentorship sessions. Despite my busy schedule, I always make time to network and stay updated with industry trends.
Can you share a valuable lesson you learned from a setback or failure in your career?
One significant lesson I learned is the importance of resilience and adaptability. A setback in a critical research project taught me to embrace challenges as learning opportunities. It reinforced the need to stay focused, recalibrate strategies, and persist despite obstacles.
What motivates you to continue striving for excellence in your field?
The potential impact of my work on improving healthcare outcomes and advancing scientific knowledge is a profound motivator. Additionally, the trust and recognition from my peers and the community fuel my drive to strive for excellence continually.
How do you spend your downtime?
I enjoy listening to podcasts on leadership and innovation during my downtime, which help me stay inspired and informed. I also spend quality time with my family and engage in community service activities. Physical exercise, like gym and tennis, is essential for maintaining my work-life balance.
Why did you choose Griffith University?
Griffith University stood out for its pioneering research programs and esteemed faculty, particularly in stem cell research. The opportunity to learn from and work with renowned experts like Professor Alan Mackay-Sim was a significant factor in my decision.
Why are you proud to be a Griffith alumnus?
Griffith University is synonymous with excellence and innovation. I am proud to be part of an institution that values cutting-edge research, community engagement, and global impact. The university's commitment to diversity and inclusion resonates deeply with my personal values.
How do you see your industry evolving in the next decade, and how do you plan to adapt?
The next decade will likely see significant advancements in biotechnology and AI integration. Staying agile, continuously learning, and fostering collaborations across disciplines will be key. I plan to lead initiatives that bridge technology and healthcare, driving innovation and improving patient outcomes.
Can you share a specific initiative or project you're currently working on that excites you?
I am currently establishing a National Manufacturing Capability Network, a funded initiative by the Commonwealth. This program would help me support small-to-medium enterprises in accelerating their commercialisation journey and rapidly growing their businesses. This certainly excites me as it will show us a national footprint of new innovations and sovereign growth, and I can be part of the success.
Can you share a piece of advice you wish you had received earlier in your career?
I wish someone had told me earlier to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success. Understanding that setbacks are part of the growth process and learning to view them as valuable experiences would have made my journey smoother and more enriching.
How do you approach leadership in your work and community involvement?
To me, leadership is about inspiring and empowering others. I prioritise open communication, collaboration, and fostering an inclusive environment. In community involvement, I lead by example, demonstrating commitment and encouraging collective efforts towards common goals.
Favourite inspirational quote, and why?
"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." by Winston Churchill. This quote resonates with me because it encapsulates the essence of perseverance and resilience, which are crucial in both professional and personal journeys.
Best life book recommendation, and why?
One of my favourite books is The Innovator's Dilemma by Clayton M. Christensen. It provides profound insights into how successful companies can fail by doing everything right, highlighting the importance of disruptive innovation. It's a must-read for anyone looking to understand the dynamics of innovation and growth.
Want more?
Meet the rest of our 2024 winners and discover how they are making it matter.