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The Center for Biological, Bioinspired, and Biomaterials Here we investigate biological systems and apply the lessons learned in order to develop novel,
bioinspired materials and biomaterials. Our research focuses on three main areas: Biomimetics or bioinspired materials design – synthesis of novel materials, devices, and structures inspired by biology. Biomaterials – the application of materials in the biomedical arena (e.g. implants).  |
News Obituary: Professor Joanna McKittrick  Joanna McKittrick, a pioneering engineer at the University of California San Diego and a renowned expert in materials science passed away Nov. 15, 2019. She was 65. To read more please click News Obituary: Professor Joanna McKittrick Updated: 12/18/2019 |
Structural Biological Materials We study a variety of biological materials that are lightweight, strong, and fracture resistant.  Toughness and Modulus Organic based biological materials show high toughness (biopolymers/natural elastomers) and low modulus. The inorganic constituents (biominerals) show high modulus and low toughness. In combination, the composite (bone and nacre) have both high toughness and modulus which is not seen in typical synthetic materials. This is a desirable attribute of biological materials and is inspiration for many bioinspired designs.  | Characteristics of Biological Materials The classic Arzt heptahedron describes the seven unique characteristics of biological materials.  3D Printing to Develop Bioinspired Designs This process map describes how additive manufacturing is used to probe biological materials and bioinspired designs.  |