Smart Systems: From Cells to Cities

Cells don't just exist; they feel. From hearing sound waves to sensing stiffness, physical forces dictate cell behavior. Come learn how we can build microscopic gyms to train cells using electricity, sound waves, and squishy materials, forcing them to shape up and regenerate the body. Whether repairing hearts or eardrums, it turns out even cells need a workout regimen to perform optimally.

People spend about 80% of their time indoors. Yet heating and cooling systems, which use a large share of a building’s energy, often fail to keep everyone comfortable. Standard systems set one temperature for all, wasting energy and still leaving some people too hot or too cold. This talk explores how buildings can respond to people in real time, using data and smart technology to create small, personalized comfort zones. By combining design, technology, and an understanding of human behavior, we can improve comfort while using less energy. Join me to imagine buildings that respond to you.

Carbon dioxide can be captured, reused, and stored in ways that turn waste into value. What if one process could transform both carbon dioxide and polluted soil into useful resources? We use naturally occurring amino acids to capture carbon dioxide in a more environmentally friendly way. These amino acids, now containing captured carbon dioxide, can help recover metals from polluted soil, allowing them to be recycled. Finally, the carbon dioxide can be stored in the soil as a stable mineral, with potential use in building materials. Join me to see how waste can become a resource.