The Biomimicry Institute is a not-for-profit organization that promotes the study and imitation of nature’s remarkably efficient designs, bringing together scientists, engineers, architects and innovators who can use those models to create sustainable technologies. The Biomimicry Institute offers short-term workshops and two-year certificate courses in biomimicry for professionals, and helps to develop and share biomimicry-related curricula used in a range of educational venues, from K-12 classrooms to universities, as well as in non-formal settings such as zoos and museums. The Biomimicry Institute does not conduct its own research; rather, it serves as a clearinghouse and resource for those who do.

See examples of biomimicry in action or browse our online database of nature's solutions, AskNature.org.

The Biomimicry Institute was founded in 2005 by science writer and consultant Janine Benyus, in response to overwhelming interest in the subject following the publication of her book, Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature.  See videos of Ms Benyus discussing biomimicry.

Today, the Biomimicry Institute employs a staff of 10, who focus on three areas:

• Developing educational programs for students, professionals and the general public.
• Working to create public policies that use biomimicry as a solution to sustainability challenges.
• Encouraging companies that are profiting from biomimicry to provide financial support for biodiversity. 

See staff and board bios

 Position Announcement:

Position Title: Chief Operations Officer (COO)
Location: Missoula, Montana
Start Date: April 1, 2010 goal
Company: The Biomimicry Group

The Biomimicry Group comprises The Biomimicry Guild (the innovation consultancy for bio-Inspired design started in 1998), The Biomimicry Institute (the not-for-profit education entity founded in 2005) and a newly launched social enterprise (B corporation) designed to deliver a professional pathway in biomimicry. Download the full Biomimicry COO position announcement (PDF 84kB)>

2006-2009 Biomimicry Institute Report

 Download The Biomimicry Institute 2006-2009 Report (PDF 7600kB) >