Crossing scientific boundaries: Bionics is an example of best practice

Manfred Hartbauer is a bionics researcher. His role model is nature. Photo: Joel Kernasenko

Biologist Manfred Hartbauer has a great role model: nature. He uses its facets to explore new things.

The history of science has always taught us that there are no limits to human knowledge and ability. As researchers, we are driven by an inner urge for new knowledge and understanding of the processes of nature, which never cease to amaze us on the breathtaking journey of scientific discovery.

Evolution shows us in its purest form how boundaries can be overcome. Charles Darwin once wrote: “It is not the strongest specimen of a species that survives, nor the most intelligent. It is the one that is most adaptable to change.” We humans, as a species with billions of years of evolution behind us and ahead of us, are a powerful testament to this.

Bionic research is an excellent field for overcoming boundaries. It goes to the limits of nature to develop technical solutions that can improve our quality of life. One application is the eyes of nocturnal insects, which serve as a model for improving underexposed camera images. Another example is the control of invasive fruit flies. Here, the limits of conventional pest control are being exceeded to find new solutions.

And so it becomes clear: in science, we are always pushing the boundaries. We venture into the unknown and challenge the established in our quest for something new and better. Evolution and bionics both teach us this: There are no insurmountable frontiers, only daring challenges waiting to be accepted. So let's follow this scientific tradition in the Galilean spirit and remain bold, curious and boundless!

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