Sam Stier

Sam Stier is a Lecturer at Otis College of Art and Design, specializing in Interdisciplinary Studies within Liberal Arts and Sciences. With a biology background, he has spent 15 years advancing bio-inspired design principles, collaborating with pioneer Janine Benyus and consulting for corporations. At Otis, he co-teaches Science and Sustainable Design for juniors/seniors, blending science-based analysis of sustainable technologies with hands-on biomimicry projects.

Stier founded The Center for Learning with Nature (www.LearningWithNature.org), a nonprofit promoting biomimicry in K-12 STEAM education. His authored works include the award-winning curriculum Engineering Inspired by Nature and the book Engineering Education for the Next Generation: A Nature-Inspired Approach (wwnorton.com).

His research interests span

• Bio-inspired Design
• Sustainable Development
• Wildlife Conservation
• STEAM Education
• Systems Thinking
• Design Innovation

He emphasizes integrating natural world mentorship into technological and educational systems.

Stier’s publications highlight interdisciplinary approaches to science and design, though specific titles are not listed in the provided text. His teaching focuses on applying biomimicry to real-world challenges, bridging biology, engineering, and environmental ethics.