SMRTR Science & EngineeringJun 12, 2025Quanta Magazine

Does Form Really Shape Function?

SMRTR summary

L. Mahadevan, a Harvard professor, studies the intersection of mathematics, physics, and biology to explore form and function in nature. He investigates topics like brain folding, termite mounds, and human perception of geometry. Mahadevan's work reveals how complex biological systems emerge from simple principles, offering insights into morphogenesis, animal behavior, and human cognition. His research on brain folds and termite mound ventilation demonstrates how physical forces shape biological structures and functions across scales.

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