Filters in Biology+Biomimetics

A wide range of animals filter food from water, yet the mechanisms involved and their diversity are surprisingly understudied. Biological filters which separate particles from fluids are involved in capturing food for myriad species, filtering sediment and cleaning water, and even concentrating microplastics, and are hugely important to animal and ocean health. Filter architectures are also highly diverse – they can be as simple as sieves or bear convoluted designs; be made of soft cartilage or stiff keratin materials; and can filter particles either actively or passively. 

Our two-day conference aims to integrate these basic concepts in biological filtration and disparate research groups pushing this research forward. The meeting will unite diverse early-career and experienced scientists working on fundamental aspects of particle filtration in manifold natural systems. By bringing together multidisciplinary experts, we will build new connections and advance basic research on biological filtration and strengthen understanding of evolution and ecology, while promoting interdisciplinary links among disciplines interested in filtration science.