University In The Brewery: Session 4

Bionics - the interfacing of biology and electronics requires the design and development of new materials that enable bio-functions to be monitored and controlled using conventional electronics. The biofunction of interest can be at different levels from the biomolecular to the cellular to the biomechanic.

At the molecular level we seek materials capable of complex molecular recognition capabilities but again possessing and retaining electronic properties. Recently discovered carbon nanotubes provide "a beautiful" platform for such adventures. This aspect of the work will be presented by Dr Andrew Minett (pictured right).

At the cellular level biocompatible materials capable of sustaining mammalian cell growth are needed. Maybe such materials are known but not many are electronic in nature. Some exciting new material developments are revolutioning this field as will be presented by Dr Simon Moulton (left).

At the biomechanical level, light weight unobtrusive materials capable of transducing body movement to an electronic signal are required and recent advances present some new and exciting opportunities. Professor Gordon Wallace is pictured in the centre.