BIOINSPIRED NANOMATERIALS FUNCTIONAL SURFACES FOR HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

This PhD course provides an in-depth study of bioinspired approaches to designing nanomaterials and functional surfaces. Students will learn how principles from nature inspire innovations at the cutting edge of healthcare, such as drug delivery systems, biosensors and medical devices, as well as innovations in environmental sustainability, including self-cleaning materials, air and water purification and catalytic nanozymes. Through interdisciplinary insights and real-world applications, participants will gain a forward-looking perspective on how nanotechnology can contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future.

Learning outocomes 

By the end of this course, students should be able to:
– Understand and critically evaluate the principles of bioinspiration and biomimicry in the design of nanomaterials and functional surfaces.
– Demonstrate an advanced knowledge of the fabrication techniques and characterisation methods employed in the production of bioinspired nanomaterials.
– Analyse the structure–function relationships in natural systems and apply these concepts to engineer novel materials with tailored properties.
– Identify and assess the applications of bioinspired nanomaterials in healthcare, such as drug delivery, biosensing and antimicrobial surfaces.
– Explore environmental applications, including water and air purification, self-cleaning coatings, and catalytic systems (e.g. nanozymes).
– Critically assess the sustainability aspects of nanomaterials, including their environmental impact, life cycle and safety.
– Design interdisciplinary research approaches by integrating concepts from materials science, biology, chemistry and environmental engineering.
– Communicate complex scientific ideas effectively in written, oral and visual formats suitable for academic and non-academic audiences.
– Work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams to solve real-world challenges using bioinspired and sustainable nanotechnology.

1.Introduction to Bioinspiration and Biomimicry:
Definitions and principles of bioinspiration and biomimicry, Historical context and modern scientific relevance, Natural systems as models for material innovation

2.Fundamentals of Nanomaterials and Functional Surfaces:
Nanomaterials: types, synthesis methods, and key properties
Surface engineering: wettability, roughness, and chemical functionality
Characterization techniques (e.g., SEM, AFM, XPS, contact angle)

3.Bioinspired Materials for Healthcare Applications:
Drug delivery systems and smart nanocarriers
Antibacterial and antifouling surfaces for medical devices
Biosensors and diagnostic interfaces

4.Bioinspired Strategies for Environmental Sustainability:
Self-cleaning and photocatalytic surfaces (e.g., lotus effect, TiO₂ coatings)
Nanomaterials for water and air purification
Nanozymes and catalytic biomimetic materials

5. Safety, Ethics, and Sustainability of Nanomaterials:
Life cycle assessment and environmental impact
Nanotoxicology and regulatory considerations
Ethical implications of bioinspired technologies

6. Case Studies and Emerging Research Trends:
Real-world case studies from academia and industry
Interdisciplinary approaches and future directions
Student discussion: Designing a bioinspired nanomaterial for a specific challenge

Planned learning activities and teaching methods
Lectures, Case study discussion, Group work

– Students must have successfully completed graduate-level coursework in one or more of the following areas: Materials Science, Nanotechnology, Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Environmental Science or related fields A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline is typically required. Familiarity with basic principles of materials synthesis, surface science, and functional material characterization. Understanding of biological interfaces and environmental sustainability challenges is recommended.
– This course is available for Doctoral students.
– Required linguistic skills: English B2(CEFR) or equivalent.

Study Level: PhD