Mike North, PhD

Dr. North is involved in all aspects of our technological advancement, from inventing new materials and technologies in a cleanroom to creating cutting-edge prototypes on Discovery Channel’s "Prototype This!" With a rich background as an inventor and scientist in new materials and technologies, he has developed a method for rapid prototyping, which he both teaches and utilizes in various projects. Mike’s engaging personality makes him an energetic and charismatic advocate for science and technology, inspiring a wide range of audiences from grade-schoolers to CEOs.

A master of the “nano” world, Mike earned a Ph.D. and Masters in Materials Science and Engineering, graduating summa cum laude in Mechanical Engineering from U.C. Santa Barbara. During his graduate work, he pioneered the design and fabrication of the world’s first adhesive that can be electronically controlled, drawing inspiration from biological adhesive systems like those used by geckos. His scientific investigations have been published in leading journals such as "Advanced Materials" and "Nature," covering areas like biomimetics, micro/nanofabrication, nanoscale microscopy, and micro/nanomechanical characterization.

Dr. North’s unique combination of engineering and artistic skills led him to co-develop and star in "Prototype This!" on the Discovery Channel. He was responsible for developing concepts for new inventions and led diverse teams to create groundbreaking engineering spectacles. Beyond the show, he has been an active member and thought leader in the maker movement since 2007, contributing to projects like "The Roadkill Saloon" at the Oregon Eclipse Festival. He has brought innovation to the toy industry as the former Chief Technology Officer at Nukotoys and is the founder of ReAllocate, a project aimed at providing critical design and engineering support to economically disadvantaged communities. Mike speaks regularly on the status and future of science and technology and is a standout motivational speaker. He continues to be actively involved in several startups, educational programs, ongoing research, and serves as an advisor to multiple companies.