BioFrontiers Presents: Saad Bhamla

BioFrontiers faculty member Saad Bhamla talks about "Disciplined wonder: Of fantastic beasts and frugal machines". In this talk, he will take you on a voyage of curiosity-driven discoveries, from our backyards, to the Tibetan grasslands, to the Amazon Rainforest. He 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, he will highlight how nature's 'endless forms' solve beautiful problems in physics, engineering, and mathematics.

Then, he will share his team's 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.

Doors will open at 5:45 pm and talks begin at 6:00 pm. A social reception will follow at 7:00 pm. Visit the BioFrontiers Presents website for more information!