Creative
Ecosystems and
BioDesign
Interdisciplinary research at the intersection of biological design, sustainability, technology and contemporary artistic practice.
A research laboratory devoted to exploring the convergences between biological design, sustainability, technology and contemporary artistic practice.
Our work is grounded in the search for innovative responses to the environmental and social challenges of the twenty-first century, aligning our research with the Sustainable Development Goals.
Areas of knowledge
Ecological and regenerative art
We research the use of living organisms and biomaterials to remediate polluted environments, integrating these practices into artistic contexts that engage in dialogue with scientific protocols. Our research seeks not only to mitigate environmental impacts but also to restore ecosystems and foster artistic practices that promote biodiversity.
View projects →Bioinspired and biomimetic environment and space design
We explore how nature can inform the design of environments, products and technological systems. We research and apply biomimetic principles in our work, seeking efficient and harmonious solutions based on the observation and understanding of natural processes.
View projects →Bio-based materials, smart materials and sustainable innovation
We focus our efforts on researching and creating innovative biomaterials with sustainable and recyclable properties. We also explore how to design with matter that can react in a controlled way to stimuli from its environment. Our approach integrates these materials and eco-efficient technologies at every stage of the product life cycle, prioritising functionality, sustainability, aesthetic expression and technical excellence. Our exploration covers applications in fields as diverse as art, design, fashion and architecture, driving the transition towards more ecological practices through digital fabrication and emerging technologies.
View projects →Sustainable and regenerative fashion and circular systems
This research line addresses the environmental, social and cultural challenges of the contemporary fashion system, driving its transition towards more sustainable, regenerative and circular models. We research the development of innovative biomaterials and textiles, the application of ecodesign and circular economy strategies, and the integration of digital fabrication technologies and textile craft as complementary ways of rethinking production processes. We also explore the role of fashion as a tool for environmental, social and cultural innovation, promoting systems that contribute to the regeneration of ecosystems and to more conscious consumption.
View projects →
We aim to establish ourselves as a leading laboratory in research directed towards creating sustainable materials, environments and practices.
We understand design as a strategic tool for environmental regeneration, responsible technological progress and the building of equitable, resilient futures, aligned with the SDGs.
What we offer
EcoBD Lab generates knowledge transfer through applied research and collaboration with the creative, industrial and institutional sectors.
Our guiding values
Sustainability
We direct our work towards minimising environmental impact and fostering ecological regeneration.
Innovation
We explore new technological, material and methodological approaches to address today's challenges.
Interdisciplinarity
We bring together perspectives from science, design, engineering, architecture and art in every project.
Ethics and responsibility
We prioritise safe, transparent practices with a positive social impact throughout our research.
Collaboration
We promote joint work with academic institutions, companies, cultural bodies and communities.
Academic excellence
We ensure scientific rigour, methodological quality and critical reflection in every research process.
Services and capabilities
Cooperation as a driver of innovation
These synergies strengthen knowledge transfer, boost applied research and make it possible to develop projects with real social and environmental impact.
Latest news
For the third year running, EcoBD Lab takes part in the 17th European Researchers’ Night with an outreach and experimental activity dedicated to emerging bio-based materials as a sustainable, regenerative…
The team
Esther Pizarro Juanas
Principal investigator
Visual artist, researcher and professor at Universidad Europea de Madrid
Universidad Europea de Madrid
Isabel Marcos
Principal investigator
Visual artist, researcher and educator
Universidad Europea de Madrid
Ana Matos
PhD in architectural communication, architect and graduate in Fine Art
Researcher
Ángela Monje
PhD in Architecture
Researcher
Antía Iglesias Fernández
Artist and PhD in Creativity, Social Innovation and Sustainability
Researcher
Claudia Arbulú
Researcher, lecturer and cultural manager
Researcher
Elena Lavellés
Visual artist, filmmaker and researcher
Researcher
Gabriel Pais Sánchez-Malingre
Sound designer and lecturer-researcher
Researcher
Kenneth Gómez
Multidisciplinary designer
Researcher
Miguel Ángel Rego Robles
Artist, lecturer and researcher specialising in the relationship between art and neuroscience
External collaborator
Miguel Trigo Morán
Lecturer and design researcher
Researcher
Sally Gutiérrez Dewar
Researcher, visual artist and lecturer
External collaborator
Silvia Gómez Cisneros
Sustainable design and circular innovation
ResearcherExplore what
we do
Discover our research lines and projects. If you find common ground, let's talk.