ɫɫÀ²

News

Valuable lessons from nature: Professor finds inspiration in spider silk

Tenured Aalto professor Maria Sammalkorpi explains how the phenomena in nature can be used to understand and improve manufactured materials

I’ve always been interested in natural sciences and nature. The phenomena in nature can be also used to understand and improve manufactured materials. Nature's design strategies offer us valuable lessons. For instance, spider silk is incredibly strong. It illustrates how nature finds ways to adapt and survive, via for example exceptional materials. We can imitate or learn from it for materials design in industrial production.

Physics gives a solid understanding of how materials behave and provides a strong mathematical and theoretical base for advancement. My research is computer simulations and fundamental theory that enables creating materials-based applications across various fields. Doing multidisciplinary work with experts from different fields is sometimes challenging but also very rewarding, as it is required that we all bring our expertise to the table to create the materials of today and the future.

Theorists can sometimes be difficult to approach, but I encourage engaging them in discussions – also about practical applications – and seeking deep understanding. I also encourage students to go beyond superficial learning – it’s better to gain broad expertise and genuine understanding through thorough study.

More information:

Soft Materials Modelling group Aalto University

Soft Materials Modelling

Professor Maria Sammalkorpi

Department of Chemistry and Materials Science
 Maria Sammalkorpi

Maria Sammalkorpi

Professor (Associate Professor)
Soft Materials Modelling
  • Updated:
  • Published:
Share
URL copied!

Read more news

CKIRin johtaja Ilkka Lakaniemi
Appointments Published:

Ilkka Lakaniemi, Director of CKIR, has been appointed to the board of the Fulbright Finland Foundation

Fulbright programmes and scholarships are highly appreciated in the United States
Primary pupils sit spaced at wooden desks in a bright classroom, facing the teacher at the front.
Cooperation, Research & Art Published:

The Educational Partnership project is moving forward in Espoo – cooperation between guardians and schools is being developed through participatory methods

The two-year project explores and develops cooperation between guardians and schools using service design methods.
Kolme ihmistä katsoo jotain kannettavan tietokoneen näytöltä hymyillen.
Cooperation, Studies, University Published:

Enhance your skills for free with FITech’s summer courses

In summer 2026, FITech's course offering includes plenty of courses related to sustainability, cybersecurity, and future technologies. The application period for summer courses starts on 14 April.
kestävällä tiellä
Campus, Cooperation, University Published:

The theme month promotes sustainable mobility

In May, there will be a variety of events and campaigns in Otaniemi to remind people about making sustainable choices in mobility.