NMG Lunchtime Seminar Series: Focus on Biomimicry

 

You are invited to join us for our monthly virtual event where we will be focusing on Biomimicry.

The interactive seminar will also provide the opportunity for Questions and Answers and we often hang around at the end for a fun and engaging panel session. 

You will hear from:

Parvez Alam, Reader in Mechanical Engineering, The University of Edinburgh

Natural Materials and the Walking Dead - new insights in necro-robotics

• As we move towards a more unified world-view that considers environmental responsibility as being a 'must' in engineering practice, sustainability, renewability and biodegradability are becoming topics of significantly growing importance. But how far are we willing to go? 

• In this talk, I will discuss the utility of sustainable, renewable, and biodegradable "dead bodies" as a primary material in future robotics. I will provide further detail from a perspective of natural materials, highlighting some of our own research efforts and achievements in the field of necro-robotics.

Sepideh Khodaparast, University Academic Fellow, University of Leeds

Precision surface patterning using plant-based waxes

• Micro/nano-patterned surfaces have found increasing applications in various emerging technologies thanks to their supreme functionalities related to wetting, self-cleaning, adhesion, acoustics and interactions with biological entities. Developing practical techniques to fabricate larger areas of such surfaces in a well-controlled and cost-effective manner, however, remains challenging.
• After a brief introduction to biomimetic engineering, this talk will present diverse nano- and micro-scale patterns generated through crystallisation of plant-based waxes and their interfacial wetting functionalities.

Richard James MacCowan, Founder + Biofuturist, Biomimicry Innovation Lab

Bringing Life to Innovation 

• Disruptor and innovator, Richard James MacCowan blends nature and technology for revolutionary design, engineering and innovation. His 15+ years of experience in real estate, urban design, and nature-inspired innovation inform his unique approach.

• Through Biomimicry Innovation Lab, he advises clients seeking responsible, sustainable solutions. Driven by sustainability and a desire to challenge norms, Richard pushes boundaries. Combining finance, design, and nature-inspired expertise, he delivers solutions exceeding environmental targets.

• His innovative approach and passion have garnered him an international reputation, making him a sought-after speaker and thought leader. At the forefront of nature-inspired innovation and sustainable solutions, Richard is transforming industries and inspiring a more resilient, regenerative future. 

Matteo Santin, Professor of Tissue Regeneration, Director of the Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Devices, University of Brighton & Director of Tissue Click Ltd.

• The remodelling of healthy tissues as well as the regeneration of those damaged by trauma or diseases depends on the control of the inflammatory and tissue cell activities. These are significantly determined by the microenvironment surrounding the cells; i.e. the extracellular matrix.
• The talk will present a new technological platform able to mimic the cell microenvironment leading the cells to form tissue-like structures. The talk will also demonstrate the industrial feasibility of the technology

Preliminary agenda

13:00 – Start and greetings
13:05 – Presentations
14:00 – General discussion
14.30 – Close