Bionic humans aren’t science fiction | Michael McAlpine | TEDxMinneapolis

A smartwatch printed directly onto your skin? Bionic human eyes and ears? A 3D printer that prints human cells? This isn’t science fiction; augmented humans are around the corner. Not only that, integrating technology with biology will soon be within the grasp of the average person, potentially taking us all beyond our current human limitations. Michael McAlpine is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Minnesota, where he researches the 3D printing of functional materials and devices. His team has made breakthroughs in the realm of bionic human devices including 3D printed spinal cord implants and 3D printed bionic eyes, which were recognized by National Geographic in January 2019 as one of 12 Innovations that will Revolutionize the Future of Medicine. Michael has received a number of awards, including the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx