Novelty & New Opportunities
Arthropods (e.g., arachnids, insects, crustaceans, centipedes and millipedes) encompass the largest and most diverse animal phylum on the planet, making up >80% of animal life on earth. The diverse morphologies and natural histories of arthropods, along with their ubiquity and often high densities across virtually all ecosystems, means that arthropods provide significant challenges, as well as opportunities, for humans. They have evolved successful strategies to survive and thrive in nearly every environment on earth, yet they are not being effectively leveraged in the discovery of novel solutions to address global challenges.
Innovative, integrative research and the facilitation of translational advances that leverage arthropod biology and resilience to overcome grand challenges requires: (i) new knowledge about diverse arthropod ecology and behavior; (ii) identification, development and testing of arthropod derived/inspired materials; (iii) innovations in husbandry and large-scale production of arthropods, and (iv) the intersection of arthropods and humanity through education, community engagement and art.
We envision that we can address these challenges and advance discovery and use-inspired innovation by creating a transdisciplinary, collaborative community of inspired knowledge seekers, inventors, and creators focused on improving human and environmental health through arthropod research, education, and materials innovation in CAREMI. A community where arthropod-related research purposefully aligns with human and environmental health and feeds directly into a pipeline for innovation in arthropod-derived and use-inspired materials innovation.
CAREMI stands distinct from other national/international arthropod research communities through its comprehensive integration of interdisciplinary research, educational programs, and community-building approaches that center on arthropods. Unlike other centers that may focus solely on only one or two areas of arthropod research, e.g. vector-borne diseases (CVID, formerly AIDL Arthropod-borne and Infectious Diseases Laboratory) or agricultural pest management (CAMTech), CAREMI encompasses a wide spectrum of arthropod-related disciplines including vector borne disease, agriculture, environmental health, robotics, sensors, arts, education, and materials innovation, with designated community building activities and intentional training programs and community outreach.
Our community is not only a hub for cutting-edge research but also a vibrant connector that engages students, professionals, and the public through symposia, workshops, and educational courses. These engagements are designed to inspire and educate a broader audience about the importance of arthropods in science and technology, which is rare among any peer centers or institutions. Additionally, CAREMI's focus on developing a sustainable research community that leverages arthropod biology to inspire breakthroughs in complementary fields positions it uniquely at the forefront of arthropod-based innovation. By offering a holistic and expansive approach that combines multiple research foci with a strong emphasis on student engagement and funding—including structured programs for undergraduates and graduates—CAREMI not only advances the scientific community’s understanding of arthropods but also prepares the next generation of scientists to continue this innovative legacy. This comprehensive integration of research, education, and community engagement makes CAREMI a unique and exemplary model in the realm of arthropod research centers.
