Creative Sustainability Program

Research Focus: Mycelium biomaterials and community-driven biodesign

I served as a co-lead of The Test Site: an ongoing project that, with its practical orientation, integrates both ecological and social sustainability. It brings students together and encourages new experiments. In The Test Site's environment, community can be formed not just among humans but across different species as well.

This project works at the intersection of biomaterial making and community engagement. It explores mycelium-based composites and how to introduce the concept of these novel materials to those unfamiliar with them, with the goal to expand ideas of sustainability. The exhibit will showcase innovative substrates used for mycelium bio-composites, new ways of making shapes with the material, and a manual that guides organizers through this process from beginning to end.

Wrote and won 9,500€ grant with 4 fellow students to finish a 6m tall A-Frame building at The Test Site on campus, abandoned after the initial structure was built. Used reclaimed wood, polycarbonate paneling, and second-hand materials.

Planned workshop with architects and volunteers, plan weekly meetings, source building sustainable materials, revise CAD drawings, host and manage build workshops, teach volunteers proper tool and building techniques.