One difficulty in nanorobot design is to make nanostructures sense and respond to the environment

Putting snail insulin to work

Powered by a chemical reaction controlled by microfluidics, 3D-printed ‘octobot’ has no electronics

Study uncovers molecular explanation for one of nature’s most effective glues

The proof of concept wing will eventually enable flight over much longer distances than currently possible

Proposed model also contributes to the understanding of the reflective layering in the skin of some organisms

A combination of nano-sized pores and the use of a special coating called preen oil makes Antarctic penguin feathers ultra-water-repelling, which keeps them ice-free

A Stanford-led team shows how these ancient creatures' undulating motions cause water to pull them along, an insight that could spur new designs for underwater craft

Team determines that UVB rays are an important environmental factor in the performance of spider glue

Work eases the way to create future aerial-aquatic robotic vehicles