Scientists observe what works best for animals, plants in efforts to build better products

By Sharon Oosthoek

Web edition: May 30, 2012

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The design of humpback whale flippers inspired wind turbine blades that are more energy efficient.

Credit: WhalePower

Imagine a tape so strong it can hold your weight and be peeled off thousands of times without losing its stickiness. Stanislav Gorb, a professor of zoology at the University of Kiel in Germany, figured out how to make such a tape last year. He is one of a number of scientists, three of whom are profiled here, engaged in biomimicry. Each is designing new technologies inspired by Mother Nature. This piece also kicks off a new series on Cool Jobs.

Visit the new Science News for Kids website and read the full story: Cool Jobs: Like Mother Nature