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

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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

Birds of Corriell Hike and Talk promotional image

Birds of Corriell Hike and Talk

Sunday, August 30, 2026 9:00am to 11:00am
Corriell Nature Preserve

Join Bur Oak Land Trust and University of Iowa Main Library Gallery exhibit curators Collin Vandewalle and Lindsay Moen for a free migratory bird hike at Corriell Nature Preserve.

Celebrate the legacy of Jay N. “Ding” Darling while learning about local conservation efforts, getting outside, and observing birds as they begin their southern migration.

Corriell Nature Preserve is one of Bur Oak Land Trust's most biologically diverse preserves. In addition to the sand prairie with native cactus and an...

Toxic Taps: How Agriculture is Impacting Public Health promotional image

Toxic Taps: How Agriculture is Impacting Public Health

Thursday, September 3, 2026 6:30pm
Iowa City Public Library

On September 3, Toxic Taps and Cancer: Iowa’s Water Quality Crisis looks to provide some answers with a panel of experts examining the public health consequences of nitrate and other industrial agriculture pollutants in Iowa’s drinking water and air. The meeting, organized by the Iowa Alliance for Responsible Agriculture (IARA), begins at 6:30 pm at the Iowa City Public Library, 123 South Linn Street. Little Village Magazine is cosponsoring this event.

University of Iowa researcher Dr. David...

Exhibit Opening Celebration for 'It’s Been Wonderful Knowing You: Wildlife Conservation and Advocacy Through the Lens of Jay N. “Ding” Darling' promotional image

Exhibit Opening Celebration for 'It’s Been Wonderful Knowing You: Wildlife Conservation and Advocacy Through the Lens of Jay N. “Ding” Darling'

Thursday, September 10, 2026 4:00pm to 5:30pm
University of Iowa Main Library

Enjoy refreshments, remarks from the curators, and an open house in recognition of the fall 2026 Main Library Gallery exhibition, It’s Been Wonderful Knowing You: Wildlife Conservation and Advocacy Through the Lens of Jay N. “Ding” Darling.

Event Schedule
4–5:30 p.m.: Reception and open house with curators Lindsay Moen and Collin Vandewalle
4:30 p.m.: Brief remarks in the Main Library Gallery
5:30 p.m.: Opening event ends
6 p.m.: Main Library Gallery closes

Admission to the gallery is always free...