The Sustainable Polymer Innovation Laboratory

The properties of textiles and plastics often rely on combinations of multiple materials to fulfill specific functional requirements. This multimaterial nature results in particularly energy- and time-consuming manufacturing and challenging recyclability. In the SPIn lab, we design materials and processes focusing on environmental impact, functionality, and scalability.

The SPIn lab commitment to sustainability goes beyond its research focus: We strive to fuse educational initiatives with innovation in polymers and manufacturing, and promote equitable access to research and education in Materials Science and Engineering. We strongly believe that everyone in the group brings something important to the team in our common goal to promote sustainability in polymer manufacturing and research excellence. To achieve this, we strive to create a supportive environment in which all researchers can blossom and express their individual contribution in our work.

As the principal investigator of the SPIn lab, it is my role to accompany each and every lab member in achieving their full potential by fostering a welcoming space for all. Dialogue and listening are key values to our lab, so our community can benefit from the input of each individual with their own experience and vision. Diversity of thought and background is celebrated and constitutes an important driver towards sustainable innovation. Kindness and respect to ourselves and each other is the common thread of our lab culture of learning, safety, and well-being.