Sara V. Fernandez is a PhD candidate at the MIT Center for Bits and Atoms (CBA), where she designs precision scientific instruments to make fabrication and metrology more accessible. Her recent work includes the development of a low-cost white-light imaging interferometer for nanoscale surface scanning supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Previously, Sara's work centered on making flexible medical devices for remote and at-home monitoring applications, with a particular emphasis on creating solutions that bridge advanced materials science and user-focused design.

Sara is also passionate about translating cutting-edge research into commercially viable solutions, taking steps to bridge the gap between academic R&D and market implementation. Across her research and entrepreneurial work, she is particularly interested in designing technologies from first principles, connecting technical development with real-world needs, and expanding access to capabilities that have traditionally required expensive or highly specialized equipment.