Nature‑Inspired Engineering Symposium Showcases Interdisciplinary Innovation
Oxford Brookes University hosted the Nature-Inspired Engineering Symposium, where international experts and students explored engineering breakthroughs in soft tissue research, specifically for knees, ligaments, and tendons.
The event showcased cutting‑edge research at the interface of biomechanics, materials science and bioengineering, demonstrating how fundamental engineering approaches are being applied to real‑world clinical challenges. The symposium was organised by Olga Barrera, Associate professor (former Reader) in Engineering and Professor in Multiphysics Mechanics and Biomechanics and Scientific Director of the Luxembourg Health & Sport Science Research Institute (LHSSRI) and co-organised by Prof Verena Kriechbaumer Professor of Plant Biology and deputy director of the Oxford Brookes Centre for Bioimaging.
Research at the forefront of soft tissue innovation
The programme featured high‑profile invited speakers working at the forefront of nature‑inspired and biomedical engineering. Francesca de Caro presented innovative approaches to cartilage and meniscus repair, illustrating how bio‑inspired design can inform next‑generation therapeutic solutions. Alberto Sensini followed with insights into advanced scaffolds and metamaterial interfaces, highlighting how engineered micro‑architectures can enhance tissue integration and mechanical performance.
Together, the presentations demonstrated how engineering research is shaping new directions in soft tissue regeneration and repair, reinforcing Oxford Brookes’ strengths in applied, translational science.Showcasing facilities and student‑led research
A key feature of the day was a series of laboratory visits that showcased the University’s in‑house research capabilities. Delegates visited the Bio‑Inspired Engineering & Multiphysics Lab, where undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD Mechanical Engineering students, alongside recent graduates from Mechanical Engineering Design, presented their work and demonstrated experimental and computational techniques used to translate biological principles into engineered systems.
The programme also included a visit to the Bioimaging Lab, hosted by Prof. Verena Kriechbaumer, where attendees explored the advanced imaging tools that underpin much of the University’s research in tissue characterisation and biomedical engineering.
These sessions provided valuable opportunities for dialogue between students, academic staff and external partners, highlighting the role of students as active contributors to research and innovation at Oxford Brookes.
Industry engagement and collaboration
The symposium welcomed participation from industry, with Contura Orthopaedics Ltd supporting the event. Discussions with Philip Kusk and Simon Boegh Steno emphasised the importance of academic–industry collaboration in accelerating the translation of research into clinical and commercial impact.
The event was formally opened by Professor James G. Broughton, whose hands‑on support was warmly acknowledged by organisers and participants.A collaborative effort
The success of the symposium reflected the collective efforts of staff and students across disciplines. Special recognition was given to Saduni Wanniarachchi, whose coordination and support were instrumental in delivering the event. Thanks were also extended to our students Amna Aamir, Laurence Vines, George Smith, Sam Vanns, Rasoul Mirghafarii and colleagues and contributors who helped make the day possible, including Laurence Marks, Daniel Bell, Abhinav Priyadarshi, David Heath and Shpend Gerguri.Looking ahead
The Nature‑Inspired Engineering Symposium provided a vibrant platform for sharing ideas, building connections and inspiring future collaborations across engineering, life sciences and healthcare. By bringing together research excellence, state‑of‑the‑art facilities and an engaged student community, the event underlined Oxford Brookes University’s commitment to innovation that bridges disciplines and addresses real‑world challenges.
Further events and collaborations in this space are planned, as the University continues to develop its strengths in nature‑inspired and biomedical engineering research.