TEDxSanJoaquin - Craig Vierra - Spider Silk: A Next Generation Biomaterial

Dr. Craig Vierra, a professor of biology at University of the Pacific, has been given the University Distinguished Faculty Award in recognition of his work as "a scientist and scholar and his dedication to students and undergraduate research." Dr. Vierra, who is also co-chairman of the Department of Biological Sciences, joined Pacific as a visiting lecturer in the fall of 1994.

His research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanics of black widow spider silk and how these properties relate to the fiber's high tensile strength, elasticity and toughness. His work has been published in a variety of publications, including the Journal of Biological Chemistry, Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences and Biochemistry.

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)