IFBIE MISSION

The International Forum on Bio-Inspired Engineering (IFBIE) is a non-profit organization that was established in Boston, MA, USA, to reflect the rapidly growing activity at the interfaces between the molecular life sciences and the engineering disciplines. This trend is manifested by two modes of research and development efforts, both being based on a profound understanding of bio-molecular architecture and interactions, biological systems, and associated processes. One effort is aimed at discovering and developing new biological/biomedical functions and structures by modifying and re-designing the natural systems. The opposite effort targets new materials and processes in non-biological environments. In recent years, this highly interdisciplinary scientific and technological activity has created new strategies for drug discovery and has helped produce innovative biomedical devices and new materials, including nano-materials, electronic, magnetic and photonic devices, molecular machines, molecular computing devices, catalysts, etc. 

IFSBIE SERIES

The main activity of IFBIE is (1) to organize and support international symposia, in which diverse audiences are brought together from academic, technological, and industrial circles, and (2) to provide a unique forum for interdisciplinary networking. Each of the ISBIE (International Symposium on Bio-Inspired Engineering) events brings together researchers from a broad variety of disciplines, including the chemical and biological sciences, biophysics, nanotechnology and bio-nanotechnology, the pharmaceutical industry and biotechnology, computer sciences, bioinformatics, material sciences, and electrical and mechanical engineering, to explore new methodologies and synergisms.

ISBIE represents an ideal setup for fostering new ideas and collaborations through brainstorming discussions. Each of the ISBIE programs comprises about 20 plenary lectures, all of which take place in the same lecture hall. All other contributions are presented in the form of posters. This practice maximizes the audience's exposure to a broad spectrum of disciplines, and encourages collaboration and cross-fertilization. Each ISBIE symposium makes every possible effort to encourage the participation of young scientists, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students by offering discount rates and travel awards.

The series commenced with ISBIE-2003, which took place at the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology. ISBIE-2007 was held at the Dead Sea, Israel, and ISBIE-2009 will take place in Taipei, Taiwan.

IFSBIE AWARD

An effort is being made to establish a prestigious prize for outstanding scientific achievements in the broad area of bio-inspired engineering. This award will be awarded every 2 years at the opening session of the symposium.