Project details
As designers and engineers aim to be intellectually and hence economically competitive, there is a growing interest in looking to biology as a source of analogous solutions to specific design problems.

Biomimetics is the practical application of ideas and concepts extracted from the study of biological systems ranging from unicellular organisms to ecosystems. As an emerging technology, biomimetics challenges well-established design methodologies with proven track records. The positioning of biomimetics as a scientific field is problematic as approaches are domain specific and variances in practice, creativity, and processes inevitably lack repeatability.

Practical guidance and tools to engage directly with data sources, information and knowledge of the biosciences has been recognized as a commonly missing element. This project aims to explore ways of interrogating existing information relating to biological features, forms, behaviours, and related phenomena and establish an interpretive link that is accessible to non-biologists. It is anticipated that such a tool would have impact on the ability of designers and engineers to work across disciplinary boundaries.

Invitations are invited from PhD candidates with diverse and inter-disciplinary backgrounds and skill sets, with creative ideas for the development of new design tools. Experience of large data sets, data mining and informatics with insights into computer-based design tools is essential.

You will need to book the accommodation after you have been accepted.

You can choose to live on campus or off campus in private accommodation.

• Make a booking online after you have been accepted (in this case please let us know your choice when you apply).
• Register when you arrive - its not possible to reserve a room before arriving. You can arrive a few days before and book it