Olga Speck

Dr. Olga Speck is a Principal Investigator and Research Scientist at the University of Freiburg's Plant Biomechanics Group within the Botanical Garden. She also serves as Scientific Coordinator at the Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies (FIT). Her work bridges plant functional morphology and biomimetic applications, focusing on self-repairing materials, sustainable technology, and biomechanical adaptations in plants.

Her research integrates interdisciplinary projects under the Cluster of Excellence livMatS (Living, Adaptive and Energy-Autonomous Materials Systems), including studies on plant-host interfaces, bio-inspired actuators, and educational modules on biomimetic principles. Key collaborations involve materials scientists, engineers, and educators to translate biological mechanisms into technical innovations.

Dr. Speck's research interests span bioinspired materials systems, plant damage control mechanisms, and the application of biological concepts to address environmental challenges. She leads projects like 'Abscission and self-repair in biological and artificial materials systems' and 'Conjoining Trees for Living Architecture'. Her work emphasizes sustainability assessment frameworks and educational outreach through botanical gardens.

Notable contributions include studies on cactus branch repair, biomimetic self-sealing actuators, and public perception of biomimetic architecture. She advises doctoral researchers and collaborates internationally to advance bio-inspired technologies. Current projects include soft robotic systems inspired by plant movements and interdisciplinary sustainability evaluations.