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

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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

Events

Field Trip to the Rodale Institute Midwest Organic Center promotional image

Field Trip to the Rodale Institute Midwest Organic Center

Tuesday, September 15, 2026 3:30pm to 6:00pm
Rodale Institute
Step outside the classroom and discover how research is shaping the future of food and agriculture. Join fellow UI students for a tour of the Rodale Institute Midwest Organic Center at Eztel Sugar Grove Farm in Marion, Iowa.
Raptor Readers: Owls (Sept. 17) promotional image

Raptor Readers: Owls (Sept. 17)

Thursday, September 17, 2026 4:00pm to 4:45pm
Iowa Raptor Project Bird Blind
Raptor Readers: Vultures
Witness to Waste: Curating an Exhibit on Jay N. “Ding” Darling’s Conservation Legacy promotional image

Witness to Waste: Curating an Exhibit on Jay N. “Ding” Darling’s Conservation Legacy

Thursday, September 24, 2026 12:00pm to 1:00pm
Virtual
An online curator talk about the fall 2026 Main Library Gallery exhibition.