BPI Seminar By Dr. Maya Kleiman

TITLE

Synthetic Systems as a Novel Tool in Agriculture

ABSTRACT

Biomimetics is a field of study at the interface of biology and material sciences using chemistry and materials to mimic biological systems. Usually, the goal is generating synthetic systems, inspired by biological solutions, to better mankind. However, biomimetics can also be used as a tool to better understand natural systems. In this talk, I will present the synthetic systems we are building, mimicking natural systems to better understand these natural systems. We use variable natural systems, all with agricultural context. I will present leaf microstructure replication and how it affects bacteria and fungi adhesion and biological activity. Additionally, I will show a system, mimicking root surfaces to study soilborne microorganisms’ reactivity to root surface properties. Finally, I will show the effect of the tissue culture media's physical properties on plant development. The common theme of all these stories is the use of synthetic, biomimetic systems to better understand the natural system they are mimicking.

AGENDA

• Introduction by Dr. Johan Foster
• Keynote Presentation by Dr. Maya Kleiman, Volcani Centre, Israel
• Q&A / Discussion

*Light refreshments will be provided.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Dr. Maya Kleiman is a researcher at the Plant Sciences Institute at the Agricultural Research Organization (Volcani Center), Israel. She received her education and training at the Technion (BSc and MSc) and Ben Gurion University of the Negev (PhD) and performed her post-doctoral research at the University of California, Irvine. Dr. Kleiman’s research focuses on the interface between material sciences and biology, specifically, aiming at building synthetic systems that will aid researchers in better understanding how physical properties, such as microstructure, affect the interaction between plants and their environment. She is a leading member of the Volcani Center Agro Nanotechnology forum that encourages the use of nanotechnology in agriculture. She is the Israeli representative in the International Society for Horticultural Sciences and is in the management committee of several COST actions in the fields of microbiology and topography. Dr. Kleiman sees great importance in outreach activities and is constantly presenting current research to high school students across Israel. 

REGISTRATION FOR SEMINAR BY DR. KLEIMAN

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