40 Researchers Unite
University of Nebraska's arthropod-inspired initiative yields breakthroughs in cancer treatment and biochemical sensors
The Community for Arthropod Research, Education, and Materials Innovation (CAREMI) at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is using arthropods as a focus for interdisciplinary research to tackle global challenges. Led by Husker researchers Eileen Hebets and Angela Pannier, the initiative has already shown promising results, with around 40 researchers currently affiliated with it.
CAREMI was launched in 2024 with a Grand Challenges Planning Grant from the Office of Research and Innovation. The initiative aims to facilitate unexpected connections among researchers from different disciplines, including medicine, agriculture, materials science, and more. Researchers are working on topics such as arthropod-inspired biochemical sensors, dragonfly wing-inspired microfluidic chips, and the potential of spider venom for cancer treatment.
The initiative has already produced preliminary data, publications, grant proposals, and student research projects. Eileen Hebets, the George Holmes Professor of biological sciences, and Angela Pannier, the Swarts Family Chair of Biological Systems Engineering and a professor of biomedical engineering, are leading the effort. Their goal is to create a community that can harness the diversity and resilience of arthropods to inspire open-ended, transdisciplinary research.
## Why it matters Arthropods, the most diverse group of animals on Earth, including insects, spiders, and crabs, can play an outsized role in tackling some of the world's biggest challenges. By using arthropods as a unifying focus for interdisciplinary research, CAREMI aims to facilitate unexpected connections among researchers from different disciplines. This approach can lead to innovative solutions to global challenges, and the initiative's momentum continues to grow.
The initiative's success can be attributed to its ability to bring together researchers from different disciplines and create a community that can share ideas and collaborate on projects. As Hebets said, arthropods can be a kind of intellectual and creative magnet, giving people a reason to come together and explore new ideas. With its interdisciplinary approach and focus on arthropods, CAREMI is poised to make a significant impact in addressing global challenges.
## What happens next As CAREMI continues to grow and expand its research, it is likely to lead to more innovative solutions to global challenges. With its strong foundation and interdisciplinary approach, the initiative is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the years to come. The University of Nebraska–Lincoln's commitment to supporting interdisciplinary research and the Grand Challenges Planning Grant from the Office of Research and Innovation have provided a solid foundation for CAREMI's success.
