Microfluidics and Mechanobiology

Overview

The Microfluidics and Mechanobiology symposium at ICONN 2026 unites world-leading researchers exploring how mechanical forces regulate biological systems from molecular to tissue scales. This multidisciplinary session showcases breakthrough innovations in microphysiological systems, bioelectronic sensing, immunoengineering, and translational microfluidic technologies. Featuring pioneers in photopatternable hydrogels for organ-on-chip applications, spider-silk bioelectronic fibres for imperceptible sensing, multidimensional immunoengineering for cancer therapy, and mechanosensitive T-cell receptor engineering, the symposium bridges fundamental mechanobiology discoveries with clinical translation. By bringing together established leaders and emerging researchers from premier institutions worldwide, we foster collaboration, accelerate innovation, and shape the future of mechano-medicine and precision diagnostics.

Symposium Scope & Objectives

This symposium explores the convergence of mechanical forces, microfluidic systems, and biological responses, organized around four interconnected themes:

1. Biomaterials and Microphysiological Systems: Photopatternable synthetic hydrogels, perfusable microchannels, and acoustofluidic bioassembly for advanced organ-on-chip platforms and tissue engineering applications.
   
2. Bioelectronics and Nanoscale Sensing: Spider-silk inspired bioelectronic fibres for imperceptible biological sensing, solid-state nanopores for molecular detection, and developmentally inspired biofabrication strategies.
   
3. Immunoengineering and Cellular Mechanobiology: Multidimensional immunoengineering approaches for cancer immunotherapy, mechanical shaping of T-cell receptor specificity, and force-regulated mechanisms in viral entry and immune responses.
   
4. Translational Microfluidics: FRET imaging of mechanobiological signaling, biomimetic nanoparticles for vaccine delivery, and microfluidic platforms for organoid development and drug discovery.

Key objectives 

• Showcase cutting-edge research spanning bioelectronics, immunoengineering, and microphysiological systems
• Foster interdisciplinary collaboration between mechanobiology, materials science, and clinical translation
• Highlight emerging technologies in organ-on-chip and nanoscale sensing platforms
• Provide platform for early-career researchers alongside established international leaders
• Promote diversity and inclusion with balanced representation across career stages and regions