BioFrontiers Presents: "Disciplined Wonder: Of Fantastic Beasts and Frugal Machines"
A public science talk exploring how nature's mechanics inspire frugal, low-cost engineering inventions.
BioFrontiers Presents is a free public talk series sponsored by the CU Boulder BioFrontiers Institute. Our mission is to engage with our community through public talks for public good. Associate Professor Saad Bhamla will deliver the November talk: Disciplined Wonder: Of Fantastic Beasts and Frugal Machines. In this talk, I will take you on a voyage of curiosity-driven discoveries, from our backyards, to the Tibetan grasslands, to the Amazon Rainforest. I will describe how sheepdogs herd and 'control' a flock of sheep, how worms braid, tangle, and knot into living "blobs" that solve a historical "Gordian knot" problem, how millimeter-scale ripple bugs deploy tiny folding fans to nimbly sprint, brake, and turn across turbulent streams, and how flamingos use their heads and feet to stir vortices that trap prey. Across these stories, I will highlight how nature's 'endless forms' solve beautiful problems in physics, engineering, and mathematics. Then, I will share our frugal science philosophy: building inventions that cost pennies but have the potential to impact billions. A 20-cent paper centrifuge for malaria diagnostics, a dollar open-source hearing aid, and a $1 vaccine delivery device inspired by a BBQ lighter, creating accessible tools that democratize science education and global health. Come learn how curiosity about the natural world can inspire real solutions to human societal problems! Talk + Q&A for the first hour, then a free reception to facilitate informal discussion.
