Abstract

As one of the promising approaches in generating advanced materials, Biomimetics offers to materials scientists and engineers a sustainable path to learn from nature in the development of high performance next generation materials. This workshop intends to cover both the fundamental exploration of materials inspired by biological systems in nature, and their fabrication and applications in today technology.

The objective of the Nature Inspired Manufacturing Workshop is the application of Biomimetic principles to create products offering novelty, competitive market value, and manufacturing using conventional and new sustainable methods. Strong emphasis is put on the science and engineering for the creation of wealth for the benefits of industry and society. We want to generate economic impact in society through a multidisciplinary approach, engaging all science from engineering to humanities, but also strongly involve industrial partners.

The two day workshop includes talks of scientists, engineers as well as company representatives who will describe their experience in utilising nature for man-made processes and products. The workshop will conclude with a panel discussion on the challenges in translating biological processes into engineering principles.

Organising Committee: Dr. Silvia Vignolini Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge; Dr. Eitan Abraham Institute of Biochemistry, Biophysics & Bioengineering, Founder of the the Nature Inspired Manufacturing Centre (NIMC), Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh; Prof. Marc Desmulliez, Director/Founder of Nature Inspired Manufacturing Centre (NIMC), Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh; Dr. Paul Barker, Department of Chemistry, Fellow of Downing College, University of Cambridge; Dr. Chris Forman, Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge