Research group of

Universidad Europea · Research group

Who we are

An academic research group focused on the convergence of biological design, sustainability and innovation across art, science and technology.

Our mission

Research, creativity
and sustainability

Creative Ecosystems and BioDesign (EcoBD Lab) is an academic research group focused on the convergence of biological design, sustainability and innovation across art, science and technology. Our mission is to explore and develop creative responses to contemporary environmental and social challenges, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through our various research lines, we seek to make a positive impact in art, design, fashion and architecture.

EcoBD Lab laboratory

Interdisciplinary research Sustainable innovation Biomaterials Nature and technology Eco-efficiency Environmental restoration Art and science Sustainable design

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.

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.

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.

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.

Global commitment

Aligned with the SDGs

Our research contributes directly to the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

4 Quality education

9 Industry, innovation and infrastructure

11 Sustainable cities and communities

12 Responsible consumption and production

13 Climate action

15 Life on land

17 Partnerships for the goals

EcoBD Lab team

Commitment

We are committed to academic excellence, innovation and the promotion of practices that help care for and regenerate our planet.

Our research aims to inspire and catalyse meaningful change towards a more sustainable and equitable future.

Discover our projects

Work with us

Services and capabilities

01

Sustainability and ecological design consultancy

Specialist advice on embedding sustainability criteria into design, architecture and production projects, from life-cycle analysis to material selection.

02

Biomaterial development

Experimental design and production of bio-based, biodegradable materials for fashion, product design, architecture and art installations.

03

Applied research and R&D projects

Design and delivery of applied research projects with companies and institutions, focused on sustainable innovation and knowledge transfer.

04

Specialist training and workshops

Training programmes, hands-on workshops and seminars on biomaterials, sustainable design, digital fabrication and ecological art, for professionals and students.

05

Technology transfer

Support for companies and organisations adopting emerging technologies and methods in biodesign, circularity and sustainable manufacturing.

06

Content production and science communication

Creation of outreach materials, accessible publications and digital content that bring the group's research to wider audiences.

07

Certification and environmental regulation advice

Technical guidance on regulatory frameworks, sustainability standards and environmental certification processes for creative and industrial projects.

Principal investigators

Esther Pizarro Juanas

Esther Pizarro Juanas

Principal investigator

Visual artist, researcher and professor at Universidad Europea de Madrid

Universidad Europea de Madrid

Isabel Marcos

Isabel Marcos

Principal investigator

Visual artist, researcher and educator

Universidad Europea de Madrid

Research team

Ana Matos

Ana Matos

PhD in architectural communication, architect and graduate in Fine Art

Universidad Europea de Madrid

Ángela Monje

Ángela Monje

PhD in Architecture

Universidad Europea de Madrid

Antía Iglesias Fernández

Antía Iglesias Fernández

Artist and PhD in Creativity, Social Innovation and Sustainability

Universidad Europea de Madrid

Claudia Arbulú

Claudia Arbulú

Researcher, lecturer and cultural manager

Universidad Europea de Madrid

Elena Lavellés

Elena Lavellés

Visual artist, filmmaker and researcher

Universidad Europea de Madrid

Gabriel Pais Sánchez-Malingre

Gabriel Pais Sánchez-Malingre

Sound designer and lecturer-researcher

Universidad Europea de Madrid

Kenneth Gómez

Kenneth Gómez

Multidisciplinary designer

Universidad Europea de Madrid

Miguel Ángel Rego Robles

Miguel Ángel Rego Robles

Artist, lecturer and researcher specialising in the relationship between art and neuroscience

Universidad Rey Juan Carlos

External collaborator

Miguel Trigo Morán

Miguel Trigo Morán

Lecturer and design researcher

Universidad Europea de Madrid

Sally Gutiérrez Dewar

Sally Gutiérrez Dewar

Researcher, visual artist and lecturer

Universidad Europea de Madrid

External collaborator

Silvia Gómez Cisneros

Silvia Gómez Cisneros

Sustainable design and circular innovation

Universidad Europea de Madrid

Past members

Alberto Galindo

PhD Architect

Universidad Europea de Madrid

Julia González Pérez

Julia González Pérez

Student

Marta de la Rocha

Deputy Dean of Fashion Design

Universidad Europea de Madrid

Uxue Moyano Martí

Uxue Moyano Martí

Student

Explore what
we do

Discover our research lines and projects. If you find common ground, let's talk.

View projects Contact