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."

See more feedback

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

Open Climb Night promotional image

Open Climb Night

Friday, November 13, 2026 8:00pm to 10:00pm
Campus Recreation and Wellness Center

Do you want to connect with other students interested in sustainability or outdoor recreation? Be part of the growing Sustainability + Adventure community on campus and join us for a night of climbing, food, and camaraderie.

You'll have a chance to experience the Climbing Wall, grab a slice of pizza, and connect with students who share similar interests.

This event is sponsored by UI Office of Sustainability and the Environment, Environmental Coalition at Iowa, School of Earth, Environment, and...

SEES Faculty Candidate Talk - Tenure Track Position, Solid Earth Geology

Monday, November 16, 2026 3:30pm
Iowa Memorial Union (IMU)

SEES:7000 Colloquium - Thursday, 11/16/26, 3:30pm, 348 Iowa Memorial Union (Big Ten Theater)

SEES:7000 Colloquium - SEES Faculty Candidate Talk - Tenure Track Position, Solid Earth Geology

SEES Grad Defense: Dionysios Stamatis - PhD Defense - "Temperature Variability in the Midwestern United States During MIS 5 through Speleothem Records and Modern Cave Monitoring from Crevice Cave, Missouri"

Tuesday, November 17, 2026 2:30pm
Schaeffer Hall

The general audience will be invited to leave after the presentation and Q & A session.

Title: Temperature Variability in the Midwestern United States During MIS 5 through Speleothem Records and Modern Cave Monitoring from Crevice Cave, Missouri

Abstract: TBD