Trent Experience Prepares Alumnus for Clean Energy Career Success
Dr. Walter Mérida oversees leading-edge clean energy research
"I can't think of a better time in history to be a scientist or an engineer working on clean energy technologies," says Trent alumnus Dr. Walter Mérida ‘89.
As director of the University of British Columbia's Clean Energy Research Centre, Dr. Mérida coordinates a research teams focused on some of the world's most innovative technologies, including low carbon fuels, renewable energy, carbon capture, connected vehicles, and water management. His work was recently highlighted in a story by the CBC.
"I lead and coordinate the Centre’s three pillars of activity: education, research, and innovation," explains Dr. Mérida, whose own research is focused on hydrogen and fuel cell technology and sustainable transportation.
Originally from Guatemala, Dr. Mérida attended Trent from 1989 to 1993, supported by a Canadian International Development Agency scholarship associated with Trent's International Program. He graduated with a B.Sc. in Physics and Chemistry.
"I'm very happy I went to Trent; it has served me extremely well in my career," he says. "The science training is very solid and is one of the best platforms for a career in many fields including engineering, business, and finance.
"One of the best things about Trent is that it's a small place and you can get to know the professors very well," Dr. Mérida adds, pointing out that physics professor Dr. Alan Slavin became his friend and mentor. "Dr. Slavin supervised my first research project and he counselled me after graduation," he says. "I had to make a difficult decision to leave the University of Toronto and join the University of Victoria. That was a pivotal move for my career."
He noted that the science education he received was complemented by Trent's strong international program which provided perspective on the geopolitical implications of energy technology deployments. "I came out with a very good toolkit to talk with some level of knowledge about what was going on, not only in Canada, but around the world."