What if the same fundamental forces that allow airplanes to soar also dictate the movements of life in the deepest parts of our oceans? National Geographic Explorer Kakani Katija has dedicated her career to exploring this very question. Bridging the worlds of aerospace and deep-sea bioengineering, Kakani unveils the surprising connections between these seemingly disparate environments and shares what she hopes to spark in the minds of Calgary audiences.
Q: You've bridged the worlds of aerospace engineering and deep-sea bioengineering, two environments often seen as vastly different. What fundamental principles of fluid dynamics do you find are surprisingly consistent across both the atmosphere and the ocean?
A: All of it!!! That’s what’s so powerful about physics and specifically fluid dynamics. The same fluid physics that governs how the atmosphere moves and planes fly is the same as what governs swimming animals in the ocean.
Q: You've emphasized the importance of bio-inspired design, drawing inspiration from the graceful movements of jellyfish. What biological adaptations or behaviours have you observed in midwater species that you believe hold the most promise for helping us face the complex challenges of climate change and ocean health?
A: I’ve come across many animals and ideas, but the one that most excites me now is giant larvacean mucus houses. I will be sharing details about these animals during my talk if you’d like to know more, but these animals create complex filtering structures out of their own mucus that is used to filter carbon and other particles in the ocean down to sub-micron sizes. A feat of engineering that we know little about, and can have use in carbon capture and sequestration, as well as filtration for health applications.
Q: As someone who has navigated a career path that blends engineering and biology (and who also has a background in figure skating), what advice would you give to young people who feel drawn to multiple seemingly disparate fields, and how can they cultivate a mindset necessary to tackle today's challenges?
A: Keep going. Focus on the things that excite you! Because while you may not know the connecting threads for all of those disparate approaches and passions, you may one day will. It’s these multidisciplinary approaches where we will find transformational solutions to society’s most challenging problems.
Q: What are you most excited for Calgary audiences to take away from your talk?
A: That the ocean is filled with awe and wonder. There is so much left to discover on this amazing planet we live on!
Eager for more? Join us for Kakani Katija: Designed by Nature on May 25 & 26 in the Jack Singer Concert Hall at Arts Commons.