Inspired by biology, humans have discovered new ways to reverse-engineer and adapt what nature has already optimized to suit their own needs. Bio-inspired technologies have applications spanning the fields of medicine, tissue engineering, robotics, nanotechnology, and more. Convergence of these bio-inspired designs, materials, and approaches combined with advances in computing and data analytics have driven novel capabilities and applications for these technologies. This workshop will explore a selection of these cutting edge biotechnologies and critical issues related to their development and use.

This workshop will be convened by the National Academies’ Standing Committee on Biotechnology Capabilities and National Security Needs.