Bio-MEMS and Microfluidics: The Hardware Engineering Replacing Animal Testing

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Published: September 30, 2026

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For decades, biomedical researchers have relied on animal models to evaluate the safety and efficacy of new pharmaceuticals. However, this biological proxy system is notoriously inefficient, with over 90 percent of clinical drug candidates failing during human trials despite showing promise in preclinical animal testing. To address this biological translation gap, a multidisciplinary convergence of microfluidics, embedded systems, and material science is giving rise to a powerful alternative: Organ-on-a-Chip (OoC) technology.

Often referred to as New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), these biomimetic systems are shifting drug discovery away from traditional animal models. For electronics engineers, roboticists, and embedded developers, these platforms represent an incredible engineering feat—effectively transforming organic biology into standardized, modular hardware systems.

RoboMeshA: How an IEEE EPICS Team Built a Portable, Zero-Setup Robotics and AI Lab

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Published: September 27, 2026

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In the rapidly evolving landscape of STEM education, hands-on experience with modern robotics and artificial intelligence is often gated behind expensive, specialized laboratory infrastructure. Many schools, particularly in developing regions, lack the budget for high-end computer labs, software licensing, and dedicated hardware. To bridge this gap, a multidisciplinary team of engineering students and faculty from ITESO (Universidad Jesuita de Guadalajara), in collaboration with the IEEE Guadalajara Section, has developed RoboMeshA. Funded by the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society through the EPICS in IEEE program, this project redefines how robotics is taught by packing a complete, self-contained educational platform into a portable unit.

Unlike traditional educational robots that require complex IDE installations, drivers, and local software configurations, RoboMeshA is designed to function as an independent, wireless learning node. The core philosophy behind the platform is to eliminate technical friction. Students do not need to install anything; instead, they connect directly to the robot's local wireless network via any web-browser-enabled device, such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone.

RoboMeshA: The Portable Robotics and AI Classroom Democratizing STEM

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Published: September 26, 2026

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In many regions worldwide, students possess a deep passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) but lack the foundational infrastructure required to explore these fields hands-on. In Guadalajara, Mexico, high schools are filled with talented minds and dedicated educators, yet they frequently encounter a common obstacle: the high cost of establishing dedicated robotics laboratories and maintaining specialized computing systems. To overcome this challenge, a multidisciplinary group of 15 engineering students, faculty mentors, and volunteers from the ITESO (Universidad Jesuita de Guadalajara) and the local IEEE Section joined forces to create RoboMeshA.

Developed under the EPICS (Engineering Projects in Community Service) in IEEE initiative and funded by the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society, RoboMeshA is designed as an all-in-one, self-contained mobile learning laboratory. Instead of forcing schools to install expensive hardware arrays or navigate complex driver installations, this platform brings the lab directly to the classroom, opening doors to cutting-edge robotics and artificial intelligence experiences for students from all backgrounds.