Become aBiomimicry Innovator

Why become a Biomimicry Innovator? Because it’s your chance to make a real difference! This career lets you use your creativity to solve some of the biggest challenges facing our planet. By learning from nature’s 3.8 billion years of research and development, you can help create sustainable solutions that reduce waste, save energy, and make life better. Plus, it’s a chance to be at the forefront of innovation and technology, where your work will constantly evolve and surprise you.

• Develop sustainable solutions inspired by nature.
• Combine science, design, and creativity in one role.
• Solve real problems with natural strategies.
• Contribute to a greener and more resilient planet.

Biomimicry Innovators spend their days studying nature’s designs and figuring out how they can be applied to solve human problems. You might find yourself outdoors observing wildlife, in a lab testing new materials, or in meetings sharing your latest discoveries. Your goal? To translate the efficiency of nature into products and processes that benefit humanity and the environment. It’s about being curious, creative, and ready to experiment.

A Biomimicry Innovator will look for sustainable solutions to human challenges by looking to nature. These visionaries will ground their innovation in biological research. They’ll seek to understand the complex engineering inherent in plants, animals, and microbes and then adapt them into technologies to help create a more sustainable future.  

Biomimicry Innovators will create products and processes that will help solve some of the globe’s greatest problems such as waste management, energy efficiency, and finding a balance between agricultural areas and natural ecosystems.

• Sustainable Architecture
  • Designing buildings that mimic natural cooling and heating techniques.
• Medical Devices
  • Creating products inspired by natural healing processes.
• Automotive
  • Developing materials and designs that improve efficiency.
• Fashion and Textiles
  • Innovating sustainable fabrics inspired by nature.
• Consumer Electronics
  • Designing more efficient devices based on biological principles.
• Environmental Conservation
  • Enhancing ecosystems through nature-inspired solutions.

• Observation
  • Noticing the small details in nature’s designs.
• Creativity
  • Thinking outside the box to apply natural insights.
• Problem-solving
  • Tackling challenges with innovative solutions.
• Interdisciplinary Knowledge
  • Combining biology with engineering and design.
• Communication
  • Sharing your ideas effectively.
• Analytical Thinking
  • Understanding complex natural and technical systems.

To gear up for a career as a Biomimicry Innovator, try out some of these STEM subjects at school:

• Biology
  • Understanding the life forms you’ll be mimicking.
• Physics
  • Knowing the principles that govern the natural and manmade world.
• Design & Technology
  • Learning how to turn ideas into real-world solutions.
• Environmental Science
  • Appreciating the ecosystems you aim to protect and emulate.
• Mathematics
  • For modelling and problem-solving.
• Art
  • To develop your creative and visual thinking skills.

• Design Buildings Inspired by Nature
  Create structures that mimic termite mounds to enhance natural ventilation and energy efficiency in buildings.
• Develop Eco-Friendly Products
  Invent biodegradable packaging solutions inspired by the durability and flexibility of spider silk.
• Create Water Collection Systems
  Design water harvesting devices based on the structures of desert beetles that naturally collect water from the air.
• Work with Marine Biologists
  Collaborate with marine biologists to study coral reef resilience and apply these principles to strengthen coastal infrastructure.
• Research Renewable Energy Solutions
  Develop solar panels inspired by the shape and function of sunflower petals to capture maximum sunlight throughout the day.
• Collaborate with Fashion Designers
  Work with fashion designers to create sustainable fabrics that mimic the water repellent properties of lotus leaves.

Australia is home to many women who are leading the way in biomimicry and sustainable innovation.

Dr. Fiona Kerr

A thought leader in neuroscience and biomimicry, Dr. Kerr explores how natural systems can inspire human innovation and organisational structure.

Jane Toner

A founding member of Biomimicry Australia, Jane is passionate about applying nature-inspired solutions to design, urban planning, and architecture, making cities more sustainable and resilient.

Dr. Ganga Shreedhar

An environmental economist and biomimicry advocate, Dr. Shreedhar integrates behavioural science and nature-based solutions to promote sustainable practices in communities and businesses.

Dr. Mary White

A palaeobotanist and author, Dr. White has long advocated for using natural patterns and ecosystems to guide sustainable practices in various sectors, from agriculture to urban development.

Janine Benyus

Who popularised the concept with her book “Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature,”. Biomimicry 3.8, founded by Janine Benyus, is a prominent organisation driving research and application of biomimicry principles worldwide.

• Curious
  • Always eager to learn and explore new concepts.
• Innovative
  • Capable of thinking in new and exciting ways.
• Patient
  • Willing to take the time to understand complex systems.
• Observant
  • Keenly aware of the details in the natural world.
• Collaborative
  • Ready to work with others to bring ideas to life.
• Resilient
  • Determined to keep trying, even when things get tough.

Let’s look at what potential University and Tertiary Education you could explore:

Bachelor of Science (Environmental Science or Biology): Start with a degree in Environmental Science or Biology to understand the fundamental principles of ecosystems and natural systems. The University of Western Australia (UWA) offers a Bachelor of Science with majors in Environmental Science and Conservation Biology. This program covers topics such as ecology, climate change, and sustainable resource management, providing a solid foundation for a career in biomimicry.

Bachelor of Design (Sustainable Design): Consider a degree in Design with a focus on sustainability. Curtin University offers a Bachelor of Design (Sustainable Design), which equips students with the skills to create products, services, and spaces that mimic nature’s efficiencies and adaptabilities.

Master’s in Biomimicry or Sustainable Design: A master’s degree in Biomimicry or Sustainable Design can provide specialised training in using nature-inspired strategies for innovation. Murdoch University offers a Master of Sustainable Development, which includes modules on ecological design and the application of biomimicry in urban planning, architecture, and industrial design.

Graduate Certificate in Environmental Management or Sustainable Architecture: For a focused approach, consider a Graduate Certificate in Environmental Management or Sustainable Architecture from institutions like Edith Cowan University (ECU). These programs provide targeted knowledge in sustainable practices, environmental ethics, and nature-based solutions, preparing you for roles that require both strategic thinking and practical implementation.

Becoming a Biomimicry Innovator often involves blending different fields of study to gain a deeper understanding of nature’s principles and how they can be applied to solve human problems. For example, combining biology with engineering allows you to study organisms’ structures and functions and then apply that knowledge to design innovative technologies. Similarly, integrating environmental science with design equips you with the skills to create sustainable solutions inspired by nature.

Participating in interdisciplinary projects, research internships, and study abroad programs can provide valuable  experience and broaden your perspective. By collaborating with experts from various disciplines, you’ll learn to approach challenges from different angles and develop creative solutions that merge the best of multiple fields.

Studying to become a Biomimicry Innovator involves looking deep into the natural world to uncover its secrets and learn from its genius. You’ll explore biological systems, from the microscopic to the macroscopic, and discover how they have evolved to solve complex problems over millions of years. 

Courses in engineering, design, and sustainability will teach you how to translate these insights into practical solutions that benefit society and the environment.

Getting work experience can support aspiring Biomimicry Innovators. Work experience, research opportunities, and extracurricular projects that allow you to apply biomimicry principles in real life settings may help you work out if this career is right for you. Whether it’s working with a team to design a sustainable product or conducting field research to study natural systems, these experiences will help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in your career.

Internships with Environmental Research Institutes or Design Firms: Gain practical experience by interning with environmental research institutes or design firms, like WA’s Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions or Josh Byrne & Associates. These internships provide opportunities to work on projects that focus on sustainability, ecological design, and biomimicry, allowing you to apply your skills in real-world contexts.

Collaborate on University Research Projects: Participate in university-led research projects that explore the use of biomimicry in solving environmental challenges. Institutions such as Curtin University and Murdoch University regularly run projects that allow students to contribute to biomimicry research.

• Short Courses
  • Certifications in Biomimicry or Ecological Design Thinking: Obtain industry-recognised certifications through organisations like Biomimicry 3.8 or short courses offered by TAFE WA. These programmes provide practical skills in applying biomimicry principles to a wide range of fields, from architecture and engineering to business and education.
• Workshops
  • Workshops on Sustainable Innovation and Nature-Inspired Solutions: Attend workshops on sustainable innovation and nature-inspired solutions offered by local and international organisations, such as Green Building Council Australia or CSIRO. These sessions help you learn from experts in the field and gain insights into the latest developments in biomimicry.
• Networks
  • Join Biomimicry Networks and Environmental Organisations: Connect with networks like Biomimicry Australia or join environmental organisations such as the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) to stay updated on the latest trends, research, and job opportunities in biomimicry and sustainable innovation.
• Conferences and Events
  • Attend Conferences and Seminars on Biomimicry and Sustainability: Participate in events like the International Biomimicry Conference or the Sustainable Development Goals Summit to learn from thought leaders, share ideas, and network with professionals dedicated to using nature-inspired solutions to solve global challenges.

Western Australia

In Western Australia, opportunities for Biomimicry Innovators could be found in industries such as mining, renewable energy, and sustainable architecture. Companies are increasingly looking to nature for inspiration to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Australia

Across Australia, Biomimicry Innovators are in demand in sectors ranging from biotechnology to urban planning. With a growing focus on sustainability and innovation, there are numerous opportunities to apply biomimicry principles to solve pressing challenges.

Global Opportunities

Globally, Biomimicry Innovators are shaping the future in fields like transportation, healthcare, and product design. From Silicon Valley to Singapore, companies are harnessing nature’s wisdom to create technologies that improve lives and protect the planet.