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

Saw-whet Owl Banding promotional image

Saw-whet Owl Banding

Saturday, October 24, 2026 7:00pm to 10:00pm
Iowa Raptor Project

Join us after dark for this exclusive Northern Saw-whet Owl banding event! We will begin indoors at the Raptor Center for an engaging educational program to learn more about the secretive world of owls with our education birds. Next, you will be transported to our remote owl banding station where you will help collect data, band, and release owls that we may encounter. Due to the nature of this event, space is limited. Registrants must be 18 years of age or older to participate.

Register for one...

Hidden in Plain Sight: Environmental Law Across Iowa Practice promotional image

Hidden in Plain Sight: Environmental Law Across Iowa Practice

Friday, October 30, 2026 12:45pm to 1:45pm
Boyd Law Building

Environmental law isn't just for environmental lawyers. Join the Hubbell Environmental Law Initiative for a CLE exploring how environmental issues arise across a wide range of legal practice areas in Iowa. Through practical examples and real-world scenarios, panelists will discuss environmental due diligence in business and agricultural transactions, farm succession and estate planning, land use and local government decisions, and litigation involving contamination, nuisance claims, and...

Communities as Clients: Challenges in Environmental Justice promotional image

Communities as Clients: Challenges in Environmental Justice

Friday, October 30, 2026 1:45pm to 2:45pm
Boyd Law Building

Environmental justice presents unique legal and ethical challenges that extend beyond traditional environmental law. Join the Hubbell Environmental Law Initiative for a CLE exploring the role of attorneys representing communities affected by environmental harms. Using real-world examples from Iowa, this program will examine environmental justice principles, community lawyering, and the ethical issues that arise in representing individuals, organizations, and coalitions. Topics include...