Living Materials Laboratory:
We build
with biology
Creating construction materials in harmony with the natural world
In the Living Materials Laboratory at the University of Colorado Boulder, we are pioneering the transition toward a sustainable built environment.
Led by Professor Wil V. Srubar III, our highly interdisciplinary research lab integrates biology and biomimetic techniques with traditional materials science to bring new building materials to life.
Our vision
We strive to blur the boundaries between the natural world and the built environment, paving the way toward a regenerative, more vibrant, and healthier world for everyone.
A truly interdisciplinary lab
Along with a shared passion for sustainability, our researchers bring expertise and skills from a wide range of disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, and materials science and civil, environmental, architectural, chemical, and biological engineering.
We’re proud when our graduate students and post-docs move on to positions at other universities, private companies, and national laboratories, because they continue to build on the work we do here in the Living Materials Laboratory.
Research that spurs innovation
Our discoveries and innovations, which we publish in high-impact journals, empower researchers worldwide to create innovative solutions for buildings and cities.
A photosynthetic route to carbon-negative portland limestone cement production
Goal: Manufacturing and commercializing a net-CO2-storing portland limestone cement based on coccolithophores, which are calcareous microalgae.
Sponsor: Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA-E)
Bio-inspired restoration of aged concrete edifices (BRACE)
Goal: Infusing concrete with self-repair capabilities typically found in living organisms, inspired by human vascular systems and networks of filamentous fungi, to repair cracks.
Sponsor: Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA)
Process-structure-property relationships of 3D printed earth materials and structures
Goal: Characterizing earth- and bio-based building materials as sustainable, low-carbon, safe, affordable alternatives to cementitious materials.
Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF)
Interested in learning more?
Contact us to find out how to:
- Join the Living Materials Laboratory as a graduate student or post-doc.
- Sponsor research in our lab.
- Take advantage of our results and discoveries in your own research.
- Discover ways to collaborate in advancing the science of living materials
