About the Institute for Bioengineering

The Institute for Bioengineering is a vibrant and varied group whose interests include modelling, biosensing, biomedical signals and biomedical applications of engineering technology.

Our vision

Exploring and exploiting the transformative potential of bioengineering

We aim to establish IBioE as the UK's leading institute for translating biological insights into engineering solutions through bioinspired innovation, digital biology, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Our distinctive strength lies in our interdisciplinary approach, which enables us to address complex global challenges that cannot be solved within traditional disciplinary boundaries.

Through our vision, we will create a world-class research environment that attracts top talent, fosters entrepreneurial activity, and produces graduates equipped to lead the next generation of bioengineering innovation. Our success will be measured by our tangible impact on society through commercialised technologies, improved healthcare outcomes, and sustainable solutions for global challenges.

Research themes

Our research is organised around seven integrated themes that span the full spectrum of bioengineering applications:

Cross-cutting strategic initiatives

These initiatives support and enhance all research themes:

  • Digital Transformation: Integration of cybergenetics, generative AI, and virtual cell models across all research themes
  • Interdisciplinary Integration: Fostering collaboration across engineering disciplines through bioinspired research and biomimicry principles
  • Advanced Manufacturing: Development of cutting-edge manufacturing technologies including 3D bioprinting and lab automation
  • Nanoscale Engineering: Pioneering applications of nanotechnology and bioelectric systems in bioengineering
  • Space Applications: Developing technologies for space that translate into sustainable solutions on Earth
  • Systems Thinking: Implementing integrated approaches to understand and solve complex problems

Opportunities and impact

Bioengineering addresses some of humanity's greatest challenges:

  • Healthcare: Personalised medicine, wearable and implantable devices, regenerative medicine, and advanced diagnostics
  • Sustainability: Environmental biotechnology, renewable energy, waste treatment, and pollution remediation
  • Food Security: Agricultural productivity and sustainable food production systems
  • Advanced Manufacturing: 3D bioprinting, lab automation, and scalable biological manufacturing
  • Digital Innovation: AI-driven biology, virtual models, and computational frameworks for biological systems

The future of Bioengineering at Edinburgh

Through our interdisciplinary approach and strategic focus on emerging technologies, IBioE is uniquely positioned to lead the transformation of bioengineering research into real-world solutions. We are creating an environment where innovation thrives, where research translates into commercial impact, and where the next generation of bioengineers are equipped to address the challenges of tomorrow.

Our vision is not just about research excellence - it's about creating tangible impact that improves lives, protects our planet, and advances human knowledge through the transformative power of bioengineering.

Further Information

This article was published on