Mauro Gallo

Mauro Gallo serves as Associate Professor of Biomimicry: Learning from Nature for Sustainable Solutions at Inholland University of Applied Sciences, Delft campus. His professorship operates as a tri-institutional collaboration between Inholland Delft, Aeres University of Applied Sciences Wageningen, and VHL Leeuwarden, united by shared sustainability principles.

He holds a background in mechanical engineering and aerospace engineering from the University of Naples, Federico II, with prior research experience at ETH Zurich (2008-2011) and Delft University of Technology (2011-2016) focusing on fluid dynamics and energy systems.

His current research investigates biomimicry as an innovation methodology across three domains: product innovation (e.g., biomimetic drone systems for greenhouse pest control), process innovation, and social innovation. By analyzing nature’s sustainable designs, he develops cross-disciplinary solutions that bridge biological principles with technological and societal challenges.

Collaboration defines his work approach: students undertake graduation projects within his research group, while industry partners co-develop knowledge through applied biomimicry explorations. Recent initiatives include fluttering drone technology for agricultural applications and conceptual frameworks for authentic biomimicry implementation beyond superficial imitation.

He leads the Biomimicry research group, fostering partnerships between academic institutions and industry to advance sustainable innovation. His philosophy emphasizes sustainability, interdisciplinary collaboration, and boundary-challenging mindsets as foundational to biomimicry’s success.