Living Labs at Iowa

Living Laboratories

Teaching and learning outside the traditional classroom on the University of Iowa campus

Find Living Labs on Campus Suggest a new Living Lab About the Living Labs working group

What is a Living Lab?

A living lab is a dynamic space that leverages campus for experiential learning through teaching and research beyond the traditional classroom. It also fosters improved mental health and overall well-being for both campus and community members.

Where are the Living Labs?

Living labs are everywhere! They are any place on campus that can be used for teaching, learning, or research. Below are a few examples of spaces to explore.

The Andy Dahl Miyawaki Forest

The Andy Dahl Miyawaki Forest is a half-acre reforestation site located on the hillside northeast of Hillcrest Residence Hall and the largest Miyawaki forest in Iowa. As a living lab, the forest offers a unique, hands-on environment for students to learn about ecological restoration, sustainability, and the importance of campus and community collaboration.

Roots of Medicine

Roots of Medicine is medicinal garden formed as a collaboration between the College of Pharmacy, Hardin Library for the Health Sciences, and community members. Historical drawings and prints of the plants, information on the plant’s historical and modern medicinal uses, and a feed of the most current research are all provided through QR codes in the garden.

Ashton Prairie Living Laboratory

Situated on the University of Iowa's Ashton Cross Country Course, the Ashton Prairie Living Laboratory (APLL) is an educational and research facility for UI students and researchers and the local community.

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Maps of Living Labs

What do Hawkeyes Say About Living Labs?

"These spaces are vital to the student experience and the success of our classes."

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So Many Researchers on Campus, So Much of Campus to Research

1 in 3

undergraduates participate in research at the University of Iowa

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Locations Identified As Potential Living Laboratories

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Acres of land to explore on campus

Did you know?

Spending time in greenspaces on campus improves cognitive function, reduces stress, reduces risk of cardiovascular and respiratory mortality, and reduces social isolation!

Find spaces close to you on campus!

Living Labs Support the University of Iowa Strategic Plan

Excellence in Teaching and Learning

Living labs create an infrastructure to promote shared high-impact practices such as research, scholarship, creative activities, internships, and community engagement.

Transformative Societal Impact

Living labs further integrate sustainability into the university's teaching, research, and public engagement missions as well as its operations.

USDA image of copper shouldered oval sedge

Innovative Research and Creative Discovery

Living labs create and support collaborative groups of thought leaders and innovators to advance interdisciplinary collaboration in strategic areas, including sciences; well-being and mental health; arts and humanities; and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

News

Events

West Liberty Science Night

Thursday, April 2, 2026 5:30pm to 7:30pm

West Liberty Elementary School

K-4 children and parents are invited to the West Liberty Science Night on Thursday, April 2nd!

Join us for a fun-filled night of interactive science demonstrations and activities provided by various organizations, including IIHR—Hydroscience & Engineering and the Iowa Flood Center.

We hope to see you there!

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