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

Good Things: An Evening with Samin Nosrat promotional image

Good Things: An Evening with Samin Nosrat

Thursday, November 13, 2025 7:30pm
Hancher Auditorium
Samin Nosrat, champion of the home cook, connects food and community with her new book GOOD THINGS.
Environment & Sustainability Career Trek promotional image

Environment & Sustainability Career Trek

Friday, November 14, 2025 7:00am to 7:00pm
Pomerantz Center

Ready to take your career exploration on the road? Join us for a Career Trek to Dubuque, Iowa! We’ll visit employers making an impact in environmental and sustainability fields:

National Mississippi River Museum

Greater Dubuque Development

Eagle Point Solar

City of Dubuque/Sustainable Dubuque

Lunch and transportation are provided, just bring your curiosity and career questions!

Students should be available beginning at 7 a.m. Friday, Nov. 14 and plan for a return to Iowa City around 7 p.m.

Register by...

UICB Annual Kozo Harvest promotional image

UICB Annual Kozo Harvest

Friday, November 14, 2025 9:30am to 4:30pm
UICB Paper Research Facility & Kozo Garden
Join us for the 2025 Kozo Harvest!