Nature’s Machines

This course offers an exploration of the remarkable machinery shaped by nature, spanning from human organ systems down to the intricate world of cells and genetic material. The course consists of four modules: Human Physiology, Fundamental Biology, Immunology, and The Science and Art of Biomimicry. In the Human Physiology module, learners will gain insight into the functionality of different organ systems and their regulation, essential for maintaining optimal bodily function. Moving on to the Fundamental Biology module, we take a deep dive into the mesmerizing micro and nano machinery present within cells and biomolecules. In the module on Immunology, we explore the intricate defence mechanisms that safeguard the human body. Finally, in the module on Biomimicry, we engage in captivating discussions about real-world design and engineering solutions, all inspired by natural designs. By the end of the course, the students will have a comprehensive understanding on the different mechanisms by which natural systems operate and will be able to connect these concepts and relate them to real world applications.

Course Overview

This course offers an exploration of the remarkable machinery shaped by nature, spanning from human organ systems down to the intricate world of cells and genetic material. The course consists of four modules:

Fundamental Biology, Human Physiology, Immunology, and The Science and Art of Biomimicry. In the Fundamental Biology module, we start with the building blocks of life and take a deep dive into the mesmerizing micro and nano machinery present within cells and biomolecules. In the Human Physiology module, learners will gain insight into the functionality of different organ systems and their regulation, essential for maintaining optimal bodily function. In the module on Immunology, we explore the intricate defense mechanisms that safeguard the human body. Finally, in the module on Biomimicry, we engage in captivating discussions about real-world design and engineering solutions, all inspired by natural designs. By the end of the course, the students will have a comprehensive understanding on the different mechanisms by which natural systems operate and will be able to connect these concepts and relate them to real world applications.

Learning Objectives

After the successful completion of each module the student should be able to do the following:

  • Fundamental Biology
    • Describe the role of different cellular components and classify the biomolecules that make up the cell.
    • Explain the concept of metabolism and compare the systems organisms use to derive energy.
    • Explain the process of cell division and evaluate the importance of the cell cycle control system in maintaining cellular integrity.
    • Describe the processes by which genes direct protein synthesis and analyze potential applications of this knowledge in biological and engineering contexts.
  • Human Physiology
    • Explain the principles of homeostasis and illustrate examples of its regulation in the body.
    • Analyze the working mechanisms of key organ systems, including the nervous, muscular, and cardiovascular systems.
    • Evaluate the effects of specific stimuli—such as exercise or environment—on organ system responses.
  • Immunology
    • Understand the different components of human immune system
    • Apply the concepts of innate and adaptive immunity in context of different diseases/disorders
    • Analyze the working of different elements of the immune system based on the nature of disease/disorder
    • Synthesize the connection between the immune system response and the specific case studies covered in the module
  • Biomimicry and Biomaterials
    • Explain how materials interact with biological systems in structural and functional capacity
    • Understand the basic principles of biomimicry
    • Understand the significance of function-strategy-context while developing biomimicry solutions
    • Apply and analyze various biomimicry tools to design and solve real-world problems
    • Analyze the significance of learning from nature to develop sustainable solutions
    • Create nature-inspired solutions for challenges of air pollution, water pollution,safe sanitation, reducing use of chemical pesticides, building resilient and eco-friendly structures etc.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will achieve the following learning outcomes:

  • Understand the organization of the human body into different organ systems and explain the principles of homeostasis.
  • Gain insights into the working mechanisms of key organ systems, including the nervous, muscular, and cardiopulmonary systems, and evaluate their responses to stimuli like exercise.
  • Explore the microscopic world of cells and familiarize themselves with the intricacies of molecular machines in living organisms.
  • Comprehend the central dogma of life, the concept of evolution, and life's hierarchical organization from cells to organisms.
  • Grasp the basic principles of biomimicry and understand the significance of function-strategy-context in developing biomimicry solutions.
  • Apply and analyze various biomimicry tools to design nature-inspired, sustainable solutions for real-world challenges like air pollution, water pollution, safe sanitation, reduced use of chemical pesticides, and eco-friendly structures.

Through these outcomes, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of nature's marvels, from the human body's intricate systems to the molecular intricacies and the brilliance of biomimicry in solving real- world problems sustainably.

Fundamental biology, Human physiology and Immunology

  • Urry, Lisa A, et al. Campbell Biology. Eleventh edition.
  • Campbell Biology: Concepts & Connections, Tenth Edition, Taylor, Simon, Dickey, Hogan
  • Biology: Concepts & Connections, Sixth Edition Campbell, Reece, Taylor, Simon, and Dickey

Biomimicry and Biomaterials

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