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.

Tree Planting

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.
Pharmacy Building and Roots of Medicine

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 priaire

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

people collecting field data

1 in 3

undergraduates participate in research at the University of Iowa
bioblitz at ashton

31 +

Locations Identified As Potential Living Laboratories
bioblitz microscope

1900 +

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

Events

Curator Guided Tour in the Main Library Gallery promotional image

Curator Guided Tour in the Main Library Gallery

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 4:00pm to 5:30pm
University of Iowa Main Library
Join co-curators Collin Vandewalle and Lindsay Moen for a special guided exhibit tour and treats.

SEES:7000 Colloquium - SEES Distinguished Alumni Presentation - Dr. Brian Witzke, "An Iowa Geology Retrospective: the Crucial Role of Stratigraphy"

Thursday, October 22, 2026 3:30pm
Macbride Hall

SEES:7000 Colloquium - Thursday, 10/22/26, 3:30pm, 255 MacBride Hall

SEES Distinguished Alumni Presentation - Dr. Brian Witzke, "An Iowa Geology Retrospective: the Crucial Role of Stratigraphy"

The University of Iowa has been a center of excellence in sedimentary geology, biostratigraphy and paleontology for many decades, and stratigraphic investigations have been at the core of so many studies here at Iowa. A large group of distinguished alumni confirm that they came to study at Iowa because of...

Environmental Engineering and Science Graduate Seminar

Friday, October 23, 2026 1:30pm to 2:20pm
Seamans Center

Matt Dannenberg, Associate Professor, School of Earth, Environment and Sustainability, University of Iowa will be presenting, Droughts and Drylands in a Warmer World: How Much Has Climate Change Altered Ecosystem Responses to Water Stress?