Micromachines and Robotics
Core Area C

Berkeley researchers were among the original developers of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), and the campus remains a national leader in the research and development of new MEMS technologies and applications. Among these are bio-MEMS, micro-fabricated microdevices that can be used to investigate, diagnose, or treat medical and biological problems. MEMS devices are revolutionary -their minute size makes possible entirely new methods of health care. This potential, enforced by excellent Berkeley/UCSF research capabilities in the field, has attracted industrial and governmental interest in MEMS applications in health care. Examples of bio-MEMS potential range from new drug delivery systems for anti-cancer agents and other drugs in finely calibrated dosages, to vastly improved diagnostic techniques based on DNA and protein analyses "on a chip" technologies, to specialized tools for minimally invasive surgery.

Microrobotics, another area that Berkeley researchers have pioneered, is included with the bio-MEMS emphasis. While MEMS and robotics are distinct research areas that have different goals, the move toward robotic miniaturization and the need for small sensors and actuator algorithms, and approaches needed for microrobotics. In the same way, the control theory, algorithms, and approaches needed for microrobotics and telesurgery are becoming increasingly important for MEMS devices. The goal of increased miniaturization and common design components link the two areas. A combined view of the two research fields will accelerate progress in both, help develop a complete curriculum, and optimized laboratory space needs for the new department.