People

Areti Markopoulou is a Greek PhD architect, researcher, and urban technologist working at the intersection of architecture and digital technologies. Her work focuses on redefining cities through an ecological and technological spectrum, merging design with biotechnologies, new materials, digital fabrication, and big data. She is the Academic Direc­tor at IAAC in Barcelona, and she leads the Advanced Architecture Group, a multidisciplinary research lab exploring how design and science can positively impact the built environment.

Areti co-founded StudioP52, an art/tech gallery activating abandoned industrial warehouses, and served as co-editor of the digital platform Urban Next. She has consulted on and developed projects on topics including urban regeneration through data science, circular construction and multidisciplinary educational models in the digital age.

Markopoulou is the co-author and editor of “Learning Cities: Collective Intelligence Urban Design” (Actar, 2022), “Edible” (TAB, 2022), “ Black Ecologies” (Actar, 2019),  and co-author of the forthcoming book “Building Metabolism” (Actar, 2025) supported by the Graham Foundation Grant for Individuals.

She is the Chair of Responsive Cities Symposium that she co-founded in 2016 and served as Head Curator of international exhibitions including co-curating the Tallinn Architecture Biennale (TAB 2022), Future Arena & On Site Robotics (Construmat 2017 & 2019), HyperCity (Shenzhen Bi-city Biennale, 2015), and MyVeryOwnCity (World Bank, BR Bcn 2011).

Chiara Farinea is an Italian architect and urban planner. She holds a PhD in Urban Planning from IUAV (Venice), a Master in Advanced Architecture from IAAC (Barcelona), and an architecture degree from Politecnico di Milano. She also studied at ETSAB (Barcelona) through the Erasmus Programme and has been a member of the Association of Architects of Genova for over ten years.

Chiara’s research focuses on environmental planning and design. She is currently Head of European Projects at IAAC’s Advanced Architecture Group, coordinating several EU-funded projects related to education, research, and sustainable development. She also serves as faculty in IAAC’s educational programs.

Previously, she was a professor of Urban Planning at the Faculty of Architecture of Genoa and co-founded Gr.IN Lab, exhibiting installations at the Venice Arsenale and the Italia-China Art Biennale.

Her past experience includes managing international cooperation and smart city projects at D’Appolonia, where she led the award-winning proposal for the Rome City of Science competition. She has also worked as a Senior Architect at Open Building Research in Genoa and as a Junior Architect at KSP Engel und Zimmermann in Berlin.

Gabriele Jureviciute is a Lithuanian architect, specialising in sustainability & circularity. She holds a Master’s Degree in Advanced Architecture from IAAC, where she currently works as the Academic Coordinator for the Master in Advanced Architecture (MAA01), and as a faculty member in various courses, such as Circular Matter: Designing Circularity in the Built Environment; Fab.AR: Manual Fabrication Assisted with Augmented Reality; and the Advanced Manufacturing Thesis Cluster.

Her professional interests lie in sustainable and responsive architecture, material circularity, and vernacular construction techniques enhanced by digital technologies. Her master thesis, Plastic Emergency Architecture, explored low-cost, accessible architecture made from waste materials to improve liveability in areas affected by plastic waste. The project was exhibited at Barcelona Building Construmat 2019 and Architects@Work Madrid 2019, and further developed during a residency at Autodesk Build Space in Boston.

Before joining IAAC, Gabriele worked as an architect in Lithuania and Portugal. She has also been actively involved in the European Architecture Students Assembly (EASA) within multiple roles, including organiser and tutor.

Laura Ruggeri is an Italian economist specialised in International Relations. She currently coordinates the Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture and Design at IAAC. Laura’s career focuses on international education and exchange, with expertise in Asian culture, language, and Business Administration. She has worked across various countries, including China, Canada, Italy, and Spain.

In recent years, Laura has developed a strong interest in arts, design, and architecture. She has managed several international events and platforms, such as the Responsive Cities Symposium, part of the Active Public Space EU project, and ITmakES, a cultural design platform between Italy and Spain, powered by the Italian Consulate in Barcelona.

Akshay Madapura is a Computational Design Specialist and Architect from India, with a strong foundation in advanced digital technologies and their application in architecture. He is a graduate of the Master in Advanced Architecture at IAAC, where he has played a key role in numerous projects and seminars that explore the integration of digital tools with physical design processes.

His areas of expertise include algorithmic design, machine learning, computer vision, interaction design, and robotic fabrication. Akshay’s primary focus is on applying data-driven algorithms to real-world architectural challenges, aiming to create innovative, efficient, and sustainable design solutions.

With a passion for advancing computational methodologies, Akshay is committed to driving the evolution of architecture through the informed use of technology, pushing the limits of how data and algorithms can shape the future of design.

Ricardo Mayor Luque holds a Master’s in Architecture from the Superior Technical School of Architecture of Alcalá de Henares in Madrid and a Master’s in Advanced Architecture from IAAC, specialising in digital and robotic fabrication.

Graduating in 2012 with awards for both his academic performance and final project, Ricardo is one of the four founders of Design of Architectural Territories (DAT Pangea), which won the Best Young Architects in Europe prize for sustainable construction, awarded by the LafargeHolcim Foundation.

His professional experience spans architectural and engineering offices in Madrid, Ljubljana, Paris, and Barcelona, where he has collaborated on renowned international projects with architects such as Frank Gehry, Kengo Kuma, and OMA.

Ricardo’s research focuses on design, fabrication, and politics, with a particular interest in addressing social issues through his professional and academic work.

Angelos Chronis Angelos is the CEO and Co-Founder of Infrared City GmbH as well as Senior Research Engineer at the Austrian Institute of Technology in Vienna and Co-Director of the Master in AI for Architecture & the Built Environment at IAAC.

His work focuses on performative design, simulation, AI and data-driven design and optimization as well as interactive interfaces and AR/VR. He has led the development of various design and integrated simulation systems, such as infrared.city, a ground-breaking AI-driven climate simulation framework.

Shreya Rangholia is an Indian architect and designer with a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture. She has developed expertise in project design, construction, and on-site management. Shreya began her career at JT & Associates, where she advanced to senior architect and later associate, gaining five years of experience in designing and managing building projects, from single residences to luxury resorts.

Her passion for Indian art and textiles led her to freelance in textile art installation projects. In 2022, Shreya joined IAAC, where she now serves as Student Services Secretary and MAA Coordination Assistant.

Pilar Xiqués is from Havana, Cuba, and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Teaching English as a Foreign Language from the Pedagogical University of Havana.

She has worked as an Educational TV teacher for primary schools and as a high school teacher in Cuba. Pilar also has experience as a secretary and academic coordinator, and spent seven years teaching at a private institute in Barcelona.

David Andres Leon is an architect specialising in the research and development of computational tools for architecture, construction, and design.

He serves as the Director of the Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture and Design and is a senior faculty member for the Master in Advanced Architecture at IAAC, where he co-teaches the Digital Matter studio alongside Areti Markopoulou. David also teaches programming for architects in the MPDA Master’s program at UPC.

David holds a Master of Science from the Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD) at the University of Stuttgart and a Master’s in Advanced Design and Digital Architecture from Elisava. His research experience includes participation in the German research platform FAT-LAB in Stuttgart and working as a research assistant at the Centre for Information Technology and Architecture (CITA) for the EU-Horizon 2020 Flora Robotica project. He is also a co-author of various publications in architectural research and robotics.

Kevin Matar is an architect, urbanist, and environmentalist. He studied at l’Académie Libanaise des Beaux-Arts in Beirut and completed a Master’s in Advanced Ecological Buildings & Biocities at IAAC in Barcelona. His research has focused on construction waste, natural materials, and mycelium. As an activist, he has worked on environmental projects with NGOs, communities, and companies in Lebanon.

Currently based in Barcelona, Kevin coordinates the second year of the Master in Advanced Architecture and the CIEE – Global Architecture & Design Programme at IAAC. He was part of the team that led theOtherDada’s expansion from architecture into urban afforestation, turning what began as pro-bono work into a core part of the business.

A member of Recycle Lebanon since 2017, Kevin has contributed to campaigns like “Break Free from Plastic” in the Dive into Action program. In 2021, he served as a data outreach consultant for Regenerate Hub, and he is now the lead architect of Terrapods Green Fab Lab in Lebanon.

Eleni is a dynamic and detail-oriented visual communication specialist with extensive experience in UX/UI and information design, based in Barcelona. She has collaborated with institutions and organizations worldwide across social, commercial, and artistic sectors, excelling in transdisciplinary collaborations and participatory design projects.

With a strong ability to translate complex data and abstract ideas into accessible, user-centered visual solutions, Eleni also streamlines program administration efficiently. Her work is driven by a passion for space, books, and progressive social change, balancing both grounded and experimental approaches. She seamlessly blends analog with digital, research with play, and visualizes improvisation to create unique experiences and smart, functional solutions.

Committed to fostering engagement through strategic planning, meticulous organization, and effective communication with diverse stakeholders, Eleni believes in (co)evolution. She constantly seeks creative encounters, new approaches, and fresh perspectives, striving to work on projects that prioritize collaboration, meaningful conversations, and a positive social and environmental impact.

Andrea Conserva is an Italian architect, building engineer, and researcher. He currently serves as the EU Project Manager at the Advanced Architecture Group at IAAC in Barcelona, where he coordinates and contributes to various EU R&D projects focused on urbanism and sustainability.

Andrea holds a Master of Science in Architectural Engineering from the Politecnico of Milan (2013) and began his career as a technical researcher and project manager at the Research Centre for Energy Resources and Consumption (CIRCE) in Zaragoza, Spain. There, he managed several EU-funded projects, including FP7 and H2020, and gained expertise in energy efficiency and sustainable building modelling, simulation, and assessment.

His research explores how design, advanced technologies, and innovation can help architects and urbanists create more livable and efficient cities.

Cristian Rizzuti is an interactive media artist based in Barcelona and Rome. He graduated in Visual and Multimedia Art and completed the M-IA Master at IUAV University of Venice, specialising in interactive immersive environments.

Cristian has exhibited his work at major European events and venues, including Sonar Barcelona, MAXXI museum in Rome, Venice Biennale, and ZKM museum in Karlsruhe. Drawing inspiration from science and mathematics, his work explores human perception and the creation of synesthetic spaces, combining emotional soundscapes with physical experiences.

His installations, influenced by digital arts, live media, and interactive experiments, are often described as light sculptures.

Aleyna Gültekin is an architect, researcher, and designer from Turkey with a Master’s degree in Advanced Architecture from IAAC, Barcelona. She earned her BSc in Architecture with Honours from TOBB University of Economy and Technology in Ankara. Aleyna’s professional interests span sustainability, digital fabrication, robotics, machine learning, and material intelligence.

After graduating, she founded NERA ECO CONSTRUCTION, a startup revolutionising the construction industry through bio-based materials, energy efficiency, and carbon sequestration.

Currently, she works as a Junior Project Manager and Researcher at the Advanced Architecture Group of IAAC, contributing to EU-funded projects. Her recent research focuses on upscaling bio-based and upcycled materials, digital fabrication, bio-photovoltaic microbial cells, and nature-based solutions to create environmentally conscious architecture.

Tim Bruder  is a designer, architect, and researcher working with complex geometries, biomaterials, and living matter. He holds a Master’s degree from the Computation in Architecture studio at the Royal Danish Academy in Copenhagen. Before joining IAAC as a design and fabrication expert on the EU Project Team, he worked at CITA, contributing to several research projects and exhibitions.
Tim’s work bridges research with industrial production and speculative scenarios, integrating complex design systems in both materials and geometry. His projects include the development of 3D-printed urban furniture exhibited in Barcelona, studies on biophotovoltaic batteries powered by algae and plants, a 3D-printed bone glue panelling system, and exploring plant roots as architectural-scale composite materials.
He has led workshops at CITA and the University of Pennsylvania, focusing on conceptual development and visual representation of new material ecologies, incorporating natural processes like decay and growth.

Fiona Demeur is an architectural designer passionate about working with nature to find architectural solutions for cities and rethinking architectural education. She currently works as the project manager for Erasmus+ EU projects at IAAC’s Advanced Architecture Group, contributing to several EU-funded research initiatives. Fiona also teaches across IAAC’s Master programs, focusing on seminars related to start-up education, nature-based solutions, and research methodologies for second-year thesis development.

Fiona has been involved with two start-ups: eiria, developed during IAAC’s BUILDs program, and add.apt, based in Lagos, Nigeria. Both start-ups merge sustainable solutions with technological strategies.
She holds a BSc in Architecture from the University of Bath (2018), a Passivhaus Designer certification (2018), and a Master’s in Advanced Architecture (MAA02) from IAAC (2020), where she focused on food circularity, nature-based solutions, and living systems.
Her involvement in EU-funded projects includes Urban Shift, Green Skills for Cities, CoCoon, and CiD.

Matteo Ferrari is a strategic designer and place-maker passionate about community engagement and urban regeneration. He currently works as a Junior Project Manager for Horizon EU projects within the Advanced Architecture Group at IAAC, contributing to research on mobility, circular economy, and gamification in various EU-funded projects.

Matteo earned his BSc in Management of Creative Industries from Bocconi University in Milan (2017) and completed his MSocSc in Strategic Design and Entrepreneurship (2021), with a focus on circular urban systems.

He has been involved in diverse initiatives, including a climate education start-up focused on gamification and a cultural festival. His contributions to EU-funded projects include P2Green and Elaborator.

Hamid Peiro is an architect and digital fabrication expert with a Master of Advanced Studies ETH in Architecture and Digital Fabrication from ETH Zurich. His work integrates computational design, robotic fabrication, and sustainable construction, with a strong focus on automation and bio-based materials. He has collaborated as a researcher and developer with the Canadian Pavilion for the Venice Biennale 2025 and has developed several Grasshopper plugins focused on computational design, mathematics, and image processing. Hamid’s work has been recognized in both national and international competitions, including awards from Philips Lighting and other design innovation platforms.

Guillem Camprodon is a designer and technologist working at the intersection of emergent technologies and grassroots communities. He is the Executive Director of Fab Lab Barcelona at IAAC, a leader in the global network of over 2,000 Fab Labs and home to the Distributed Design Platform.

Guillem is passionate about teaching and co-directs the Master in Design for Emergent Futures (MDEF), a collaboration between IAAC and ELISAVA. He previously led Smart Citizen, a platform challenging the traditional top-down Smart City model by empowering communities with tools to understand their environment.

As a former research lead, he participated in numerous European-funded research projects, including Making Sense, iSCAPE, GROW Observatory, Organicity, DECODE, ROMI, and Reflow.

Luciana Asinari is the Educational Programs Lead at Fab Lab Barcelona, where she oversees the formal educational offerings, including the Master in Design for Emergent Futures, the Fab Academy, the Textile Tech Incubator, and Fabricademy. Since 2014, she has also coordinated the global Fab Academy Diploma.

Luciana’s primary interest lies in the impact of digital fabrication tools on education and the implementation of distributed educational models within the Fab Lab Network. This model connects students, mentors, and faculty globally for content sharing while allowing local prototyping to impact their immediate communities.
Luciana holds degrees in Social Sciences and Fine Arts.

Santiago Fuentemilla holds a Master’s degree in Architecture from the University of La Salle (Universitat Ramon Llull) and graduated from the Fab Academy at MIT’s Center for Bits and Atoms in 2012. He is currently pursuing a PhD in digital manufacturing at UPC (Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya).

With over 10 years of experience in international architectural projects, Santiago joined Fab Lab Barcelona in 2013, where he leads the Future Learning research area, focusing on innovative educational models to tackle future challenges. He directs the global Fab Academy and Fabricademy programs at the Barcelona node and has been a professor of the Master in Design for Emergent Futures (MDEF) since 2017.

Santiago also contributes to various EU-funded research projects, including TEC-LA (STEAM education), DO IT (entrepreneurship and social innovation for youth), PHALABS 4.0 (photonics research), POP-MACHINA (maker movement and circular economy), and SHEMAKES (empowering sustainable fashion innovators).

Alessandra Schmidt is an administrator and researcher with a critical approach to social development and management sciences. She holds a degree in Business Administration from the Federal University of Parana State and specialized in Social Entrepreneurship at INSEAD (France). Alessandra completed her first Master’s in Social Development Practice (MSc) at The Bartlett Development Planning Unit, University College London (UK), and her second Master’s in Management Sciences (MRes) from ESADE, where she is currently pursuing a PhD.

Before moving to the UK/EU, Alessandra co-founded We.Flow, a social enterprise focused on consulting and training for social impact, where she continues to serve on the Advisory Board. We.Flow is based in Brazil, her home country.

At Fab Lab Barcelona, Alessandra is a researcher involved in several EU-funded projects, including Distributed Design Platform, Make Works, Pop-Machina, Reflow, FoodSHIFT, and FOSTER.

Noel Criado is an economist and consultant specialising in business development and strategic relations. He studied at the University of Barcelona (Spain) and the University of Maastricht (The Netherlands). Since 2005, he has helped educational institutions develop strategic partnerships and monetize knowledge through applied innovation processes.

Previously, Noel served as Head of Marketing and Communication, and Head of Corporate and Institutional Relations at Elisava. He also held roles in multinational companies, including Product Manager at Esselte and Market Research Analyst at Naturgy Energy Group.

Chiara Dall’Olio is an Italian designer based in Barcelona. Architect and urban planner by training, she is currently the academic coordinator of the Master in Design for Emergent Futures and part of the Fab Academy global coordination team at Fab Lab Barcelona. She holds a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Ferrara, Italy. Master in City and Technology degree for IaaC, Barcelona, and Master in Urban and Territorial Planning for UPM, Madrid. Chiara has professional experience as an urban planner on several scales, from regional planning to small urban interventions. She applies the culture of planning to different fields: design, education, and research.

Josep Martí Elias is an Industrial Engineer from Barcelona. He began his career as a BI consultant before shifting paths and graduating from Fab Academy in 2019. Since then, Josep has taught digital fabrication, design, and electronics at the Fab Lab, contributing to the Future Learning Unit by teaching in Fab Academy, Fabricademy, and the Master in Design for Emergent Futures.

He recently started his research journey in Erasmus+ projects. Josep holds a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Technology Engineering and a Master’s in Industrial Engineering, specialising in Automatic Control, both from the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC), as well as a Fab Academy diploma. He has a deep interest in Maker culture and is always eager to learn and create new things.

Julia Leirado is an architect based in Barcelona with a focus on educational innovation and how new technologies and digital fabrication tools can enhance traditional curricula and improve the learning experience. She holds a Graduate Diploma in Architecture from the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (ETSAB), a Master’s in Project Management from EAE, and a Fab Academy diploma in digital fabrication from the Fab Lab Network.

Jessica Guy (They/ Them) is a designer and action researcher. Jessica’s work focuses on exploring participatory practices, community engagement and capacity-building activities in European research projects on a global and local scale. Jessica holds a Master degree in Design for Emergent Futures organised by the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia and Elisava Barcelona School of Design and Engineering, in collaboration with the Fab Lab Barcelona and Fab Academy. In the past, Jessica successfully graduated as an Industrial Designer (BA) at the Munich University for Applied Sciences and participated in the acceleration programme X-Futures by Fab Lab Barcelona. At Fab Lab Barcelona, Jessica is leading the global activities of the Creative Europe project Distributed Design Platform and co-leading the Erasmus+ Project Makeademy educational programme. Furthermore, they are the Make Works worldwide coordinator and lead of Make Works Catalonia. Jessica has contributed as a researcher to the European-funded projects Pop-Machina, CENTRINNO and REFLOW.

Óscar González is an Industrial Engineer based in Barcelona with expertise in data analysis, testing and calibration through his experience in automotive and sensor development. Óscar is the Sense Making lead at Fab Lab Barcelona team doing research and development within the Smart Citizen project and is an instructor at the Fabacademy program.

Olga is a visual artist and a craft-maker working towards education and local community development. She is mostly interested in supporting the socially conscious initiatives between tradition and innovation.

Milena Juarez is a Brazilian sanitary and environmental engineer with a Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies in Environmental, Economic and Social Sustainability and a specialisation in Urban and Industrial Ecology at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. With extensive research experience, Milena has actively participated in several interdisciplinary projects in circular economy, resilient cities, co-creation and sustainable food. At Fab Lab Barcelona, she currently coordinates the local pilot of the CENTRINNO project. She has been involved as an action researcher in REFLOW, SISCODE, FoodShift, and European-funded projects. As a community engagement lead at Fab Lab Barcelona, Milena supports local activities at Fab City Hub Barcelona, a distributed hub, to co-design strategies for a more circular, productive and inclusive city model.

Adai graduated with a superior degree in engraving and stamping techniques at Llotja School of Art and Design in Barcelona. After graduation, he became interested in 3D printing, taking him to get involved in Fab Labs until becoming an intern at Fab Lab Barcelona. Shortly after, Adai undertook Fab Academy in 2022 and started working at the lab in different projects like Smartcitizen and as an instructor in academic programs.

Daniel Mateos is a creative prototyping expert at Fab Lab Barcelona and he was born in Madrid, Spain.
Daniel started out as a Molecular Biologist. During his PhD he researched the Pbx-Hox transcription factor family, which is a set of genes that control the formation of the right parts in the right position in the embryo of vertebrates like mouse and humans. Surprisingly these genes also exist (and do the same thing!) in insects such as the fruit fly.
This interest in how form is encoded in the genetic sequence of animals led to an exploration of computers and computation, which led to the field of computational biology and morphogenesis, trying to decode the mathematics underneath shape and sequence. That in turn led to Data Science, the application of scientific principles to business.
Daniel then spent a few years as a Data Scientist doing things like analyzing patterns in airline tickets or gambling data, because it’s a much better life than scientific research.
In the background, he was independently learning about electronics, design, and personal fabrication for the fun of it. When a lull in work allowed him to move to Barcelona for Fab Academy, he took it. He has been at Fab Lab Barcelona ever since.

Julia is a Design Researcher with a background in Interior Design and experience in Design Consultancy in the field of communication and education. Guided by a planet-centric approach, she builds systems, designs, and narratives that aim to foster resilience and connection across disciplines, species, and environments. Her interest lies in researching how technology and societal change shape these connections through futures thinking and knowledge transfer.

Rebecca Anne Peters is a researcher and artist currently working with the Sense Making team at Fab Lab Barcelona. In 2021 she received her doctorate in Humanities from Universitat Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona, writing about technology and the role it plays within collective cultural narratives. She completed an MA in Psychosocial Studies at Birkbeck, University of London as well as an MFA in Fine Art at Goldsmiths, University of London. With a background spanning cultural studies, psychology, art, and technology, her interdisciplinary vantage point gives her a unique perspective on open source ideologies and competing models, as well as their impact on technology and society.

Sally is a multi-disciplinary professional whose background includes biology; ecological economics; teaching, marketing, communications and events both in the USA and Spain. She uses her diverse background and a transecofeminist perspective to support the creation of a just present based on citizen-centred societies and economies that produce locally and connect globally, particularly around sustainable food systems and social & environmental justice. She is passionate about making information accessible to people of all backgrounds and equipping citizens with the tools to participate in creating the world around them. Currently, Sally is an action researcher at Fab Lab Barcelona. Most recently, she was project manager for the first phase of Food Tech 3.0, one of nine Accelerator Labs for the H2020 EU project FoodSHIFT 2030. The Accelerator Lab promotes a new generation of food technology that is open, equitable, sustainable and citizen-centred. Her past work includes researching food deserts, creating multi-actor local food dialogues, supporting school garden activities, and assessing the holistic sustainability of rooftop garden spaces.

Guenda Dal Cin, is the Communication Coordinator for EU-funded Projects, overseeing communication and outreach efforts for various research and innovation initiatives. She holds a Master’s degree in Communication for Development and has experience in project management.

Vicente Guallart was the chief architect for Barcelona City Council from 2011 to 2015, where he was responsible for developing the strategic vision for the city and overseeing major development projects. He co-founded and directed IAAC from 2001 to 2011, leading notable projects such as the Media House Project (in collaboration with MIT’s CBA), HyperCatalunya, and the Fab Lab House.

Guallart’s professional practice, Guallart Architects, has delivered widely published projects, including the ports of Fugee and Keelung in Taiwan and the Sociopolis neighbourhood in Valencia. He is currently working on projects in China and Russia, focusing on innovative urban solutions. As an author, he has written books like Plans and Projects of Barcelona (2011-2015), Geologic, and The Self-Sufficient City, and he co-authored the Metapolis Dictionary of Advanced Architecture. His work has been exhibited at prestigious venues such as the Biennale of Venice and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, with a solo exhibition organised by the American Institute of Architects in Washington, D.C., in 2010.

Laia Pifarré holds a Law degree from the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (2002) and participated in the Erasmus program at the Università degli Studi di Parma in 2003. In 2015, she completed the Global Trends, Local Impacts: An Urban Futures Masterclass at the London School of Economics, and in 2018 she earned a second degree in Political Science and Administration from the Universitat de Barcelona.

Her professional career spans both the public and private sectors. From 2011 to 2015, she served as Chief of Staff to the Deputy Mayor for Urban Habitat at the Barcelona City Council, where she was involved in the development and implementation of urban policies. Since joining the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC), she has participated in numerous initiatives focused on architecture and urban innovation, with particular responsibility for coordination with companies, institutions, and public administrations.

She is currently Executive Director of Valldaura Labs, IAAC’s forest campus located in the Collserola Natural Park. Situated on a 130-hectare estate, Valldaura Labs is dedicated to research on human habitat, with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, ecology, forest management, food production, and the development of advanced ecological wooden buildings. In 2022, she served as Executive Secretary of Barcelona European Forest Capital, an initiative led by the European Forest Institute that included the organization of a scientific event on Biocities at the Barcelona Design Museum, as well as the internationally acclaimed Mass is More installation at the Mies van der Rohe Pavilion. From Valldaura Labs, she has spearheaded and managed a wide range of innovative projects, including the Tiny House (2019), the Quarantine Cabin—the first prototype built with CLT using local Valldaura timber (2020), the Solar Greenhouse (2021), the FLORA prototype developed as part of Barcelona’s designation as European Forest City (2022), the MO.CA mobile wooden housing unit (2023), and CORA House (2024), a robotic fabrication facility for timber-based prototypes. Many of these projects have been recognized in international competitions and featured in publications such as The New York Times and Monocle.

Michael Salka is the Co-director of the Master in Advanced Ecological Buildings & Biocities (MAEBB) and the Technical Director of Valldaura Labs at IAAC (2022–present). He is also a Gates Scholar PhD candidate in Architecture at the University of Cambridge (2021–2025). Michael’s career spans projects such as designing water infrastructure in rural Rwanda (2012–2014), developing net-zero neighbourhoods and urban infill projects in the USA (2014–2018), and working on engineered timber buildings and ‘Biocities’ in Spain (2018–present).

His research has been published in peer-reviewed journals (2013–present) and books such as Springer Nature’s Transforming Biocities (2023), commissioned by the European Forest Institute. He has also contributed reports on biobased social housing for the World Bank and Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). His work has been featured in outlets like The New York Times (2021). His PhD focuses on how geospatial data can inform nature-based value chains to address global climate change and related crises.

Esin Aydemir is a practising architect specialising in timber structures. After graduating from Istanbul Technical University, she worked at a construction firm focusing on timber structures. Esin furthered her studies with the Wood Program at Aalto University and a Master’s in Mass Timber Design (MMTD) at IAAC. She is currently the Academic Coordinator for the Master in Advanced Ecological Buildings and Biocities (MAEBB) program at IAAC.

Bruno Ganem is a Brazilian architect and researcher from Brasília. He currently serves as the Green Fab Lab Manager at Valldaura Self-sufficient Labs.

Bruno holds a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture and Urban Planning from the University of Brasilia (UnB), a Master’s in Advanced Architecture, and a Postgraduate degree in 3D Printed Architecture from IAAC.

With a strong interest in the intersection between architecture and craftsmanship, Bruno has gained experience working with various materials at different scales, from furniture production to the construction of timber structures.

Olly is a multidisciplinary designer, researcher, maker who obtained his Bachelors degree in Industrial Design from the University of Leeds, before working in the design industry for a deacde. He is an alumni of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation Circular Economy course and ran a sustainability team at a leading design consultancy in the UK. He has worked on a variety of design and innovation projects, as well as gaining experience in natural material building design and construction. In 2024, he graduated from the Master in Advanced Ecological Buildings and Biocities from IAAC, and now co-runs the zero agriculture course and intensive organic gardens at Valldaura labs.

Alkiviadis is an architect and researcher from Greece focused on bioregional and circular construction. With an Integrated Master’s in Architecture from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (2019) and a Master’s in Advanced Ecological Buildings and Biocities from IAAC (2024), his expertise centers on sustainable design and ecological building practices. Alkiviadis has experience in various hospitality and residential projects and has engaged in architectural competitions. He currently contributes to architectural and fabrication research and design at IAAC’s Valldaura Labs.

Mathilde Marengo is an Australian – French – Italian PhD Architect whose research focuses on enabling spatial justice in cities by leveraging advanced technologies to bridge data gaps and enable designers and decision makers to leverage these and integrate the perspectives of all, both humans and more than humans, into urban planning towards the development of evidence based, inclusive and just urban futures.

She is Head of Studies, Faculty and PhD Supervisor at the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC) researching, designing and experimenting with innovative educational formats based on holistic, multi-disciplinary and multi-scalar design approaches, redefining the paradigm of design education within the context of the climate crisis, rapid technological development and planetary urbanisation.

At IAAC, she also directs the Urban Sciences Lab (USL), a research group that enhances the creative practice of urban design through data driven methodologies. The USL explores urban design intelligence within the contexts of urban ecologies and regenerative landscapes; urban communities and public space; and urban analytics and spatial justice pioneering the transition of the urban environment in the era of big data. As part of her work in the USL, she Co-Directs IAAC’s Master in Advanced Urban Planning & Data Analytics.

Her investigation is also actuated through her role in several National and EU funded research projects, as well as being published and exhibited internationally.

Willy Müller is a Spanish-Argentinian architect and urbanist, with a PhD from the Università degli Studi di Genova (UNIGE). He is one of the founders of IAAC, where he created the Urban Sciences Lab. He co-directs the Maestría en Urbanismo Próximo and has led the X-Urban Design Studio of the Master in Advanced Architecture since 2003. Willy has co-authored several books, including Metapolis Dictionary of Advanced Architecture and Hipercatalunya.

In 1996, Willy founded WMA – Willy Müller Architects, winning multiple international competitions, including projects in St. Petersburg, the Puerto de Almería, and the Mercabarna Flower Market, which earned the International Real Estate Award for Best Public Services Building in Europe (2010).

From 2011 to 2015, Willy was the CEO of Barcelona Regional Agency, overseeing strategic planning and urban development. He has led major urban projects worldwide, including Dream City in the Dominican Republic, Vitoria Bay in Brazil, Moscow Agglomeration, and the Rio de Janeiro Metropolitan Master Plan (PDUI).

Iacopo Neri conducts research at the intersection of architecture, computer science, and urban planning. He holds a Master of Science in Architecture with Distinction from the Polytechnic University of Milan and completed the Master in City and Technology (currently Master in Advanced Urban Planning & Data Analytics) at IAAC. During the Responsive Cities Symposium (2017, Barcelona), Iacopo presented a paper on Swarm Intelligence for crowd-based analysis.

Since 2015, he has been a teaching assistant at the University of Florence, the Polytechnic University of Milan, and currently at IAAC, where he is part of the City and Technology computational research team. Iacopo also works as a computational designer at External Reference Architecture Bureau in Barcelona.

Maria Isabel da Rocha Lima is an urban development professional with over seven years of international experience in Brazil, Portugal, The Netherlands and Spain. With a background in architecture and a Master’s degree in Urban Management and Development from the IHS, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Isabel has dedicated her career to fostering spatial justice, equitable urban strategies, and collaborative approaches to city-making.

Currently she works as the Coordinator of the Master in Advanced Urban Planning & Data Analytics (formerly MaCT) at IAAC, where she is also the lead researcher on Urban Communities, with overarching topics such as participatory urban planning, inclusive urban design and spatial justice within the Urban Science Lab.

Laura Guimarães is a Brazilian architect and urbanist with a Master’s Degree in City & Technology from IAAC. She currently serves as the Urban Science Lab Manager at IAAC.

Before moving to Barcelona, Laura worked as an urban planner in Brazil, first in a city government entity overseeing mobility projects, and later as an Urban Planner and Project Coordinator at one of the country’s leading urban design firms. Her expertise in masterplans and large-scale projects is complemented by her master’s studies, which explore the intersection of urbanism and data science.

Laura’s research focuses on integrating data-driven and human-centred approaches to urban development, using digital analysis and citizen participation to inform decision-making. Her award-winning final graduation project, the Urban Regeneration of Campus 1 in Goiânia, Brazil, earned recognition in the 29th Ópera Prima National Competition for Architecture and Urbanism (2017-2018).

Ana Gallego is an architectural and urban designer, as well as a researcher at IAAC’s Urban Science Lab, focusing on innovative and sustainable projects at various scales. She was recently recognized as one of the 25 emerging researchers in architecture and urbanism by the Learn, Interact, and Networking in Architecture Programme, a European Union initiative.

Her work has been showcased by institutions such as the New European Bauhaus, the Mostra di Architettura di Venezia, MODEL Festival de Arquitecturas, and Barcelona Architecture Week. Ana has also lectured on urban design at various European universities and is currently collaborating with organisations like the Kosovo Foundation of Architecture, the Timisoara Architecture Biennale, and the Haus Der Architektur Research Lab.

Previously, she worked at prominent architectural and urban planning firms, including AMB – Metropolitan Area of Barcelona, Miralles Tagliabue EMBT, Sol89 Arquitectos, and Pargade Architectes.

Mauro Izarra is a Venezuelan Architect, with a Master’s Degree in “Urbanismo Próximo” from IAAC. He is currently the Urban Sciences Lab Assistant for the Coordination of the Lab’s Master courses.

He teaches at Universidad Simón Bolívar in Caracas, Venezuela, in the course “Digital Expression” displaying the use of different softwares for architectural and urban design.
Mauro’s research focuses on the representation of architecture through digital virtual space and how its potential is a clue to research the past, present and future of cities. His work is based on a dynamic of human-machine cooperation, as the use of technology, data and analysis can lead to accurate interventions on urban settlements.

​Mireia Lozano Carbassé is a Spanish urban sociologist, planner, and researcher. She currently serves as the coordinator of the Master in Urbanism Próximo (MaUP) and as a researcher at the Urban Sciences Lab. Mireia is also the co-founder of aquí SCCL, an urban praxis cooperative based in Barcelona that promotes spatial justice through community engagement and placemaking.
Mireia holds a Master from the Urban School of Sciences Po, and was pre-doctoral fellow at the T.H.Chan School of Public Health at Harvard University. She has previously worked in Spain, France, India, Colombia and the United States where she has developed her expertise in urban sociology, environmental impact assessment, urban diplomacy and sustainable development. As a co-founder of aquí cooperative, Mireia also brings extensive experience in co-creation processes, gender+ approaches, and collective climate adaptation. Her research focuses on spatial politics, planetary boundaries, commoning processes, and co-design methodologies.

Valeria Ospital Greslebin is an architect trained at Universidad Torcuato Di Tella in Buenos Aires. She holds a Master of Science in Design Theory and Pedagogy from SCI-Arc.

She has taught at UCLA Architecture and Urban Design (AUD) in Los Angeles, where she served as an instructor in Urban Strategy studios, undergraduate design studios, and technology seminars.

Previously, she was an assistant teacher at Studio Lynn at the Universität für angewandte Kunst in Vienna, and taught core and thesis studios as well as aesthetics seminars at Universidad Torcuato Di Tella.

At SCI-Arc, she also collaborated with the research department on a project focused on developing alternative ways to measure displacement pressures in Los Angeles.
Her research interests revolve around the use of software as a policy-making tool and harnessing qualitative and quantitative data to inform urban transformation projects.

Alexandre Dubor is an architect and researcher integrating new technologies to improve how we build and live in cities. He holds a Master’s degree in Architecture & Engineering from EAVT & ENPC (France) and a Master’s in Architecture from IAAC (Spain), specialising in robotic fabrication and large-scale additive manufacturing (FabBot 3.0). Alexandre is also a licensed architect (HMONP) in France and has worked in various architectural firms, including Libeskind, Atenastudio, iDonati, and AREP, from competition to delivery stages. In parallel, he explored coding and scripting through his practice at Collectif277.

Since 2012, Alexandre has been working at IAAC as an expert in digital and robotic fabrication. He currently leads the Robotics Lab and co-directs the postgraduate program in 3D Printing Architecture and the Master in Robotic and Advanced Construction. Alongside IAAC staff, students, and industry partners, he investigates how advancements in materials, digital fabrication, and computational design can create a more efficient, affordable, sustainable, and personalised construction ecosystem.

Edouard Cabay graduated from the Architectural Association in 2005 and has since worked for renowned firms such as Foreign Office Architects in London, Anorak in Brussels, and Cloud 9 in Barcelona, where he served as head of the office. Notable projects he completed for Cloud 9 include the Thirst Pavilion for Expo Zaragoza 2008 and the Cúpula del Milenio concert hall in Valladolid.

Currently, Edouard is a unit master for Diploma 18 at the Architectural Association, where he focuses on large-scale architectural strategies addressing the consequences of global warming. Alongside his academic work, he is establishing Appareil, an architectural practice that integrates digital design and fabrication techniques to shape the built environment.

Yara Tayoun is an architect and researcher specialising in the digital and technology-driven transition of circular processes in architecture and design. She holds a Master’s in Architecture from ALBA (Beirut, 2016) and a Master’s in Advanced Architecture from IAAC (Barcelona, 2019), with a focus on adaptive reconfigurable structures and metamaterials.

Yara is the co-founder and director of Driven Studio, a startup fostering early-stage applications of computational design and advanced technologies in construction. Before joining IAAC as the coordinator of its Postgraduate Applied Research program in 3D Printing Architecture (3DPA), she managed a team in Paris, co-creating circular resource flows in cities with a focus on wood construction through the European research project Reflow.

She developed her expertise in fabrication and design engineering by bridging traditional craftsmanship and manufacturing technologies at an innovative Wasp hub in Beirut. Yara also extends her collaborative and sustainable design approach to the performing arts, working interactively with filmmakers and dance companies.

Valeria Carrion Cruz is a project coordinator and designer with extensive experience in sustainable architecture, innovative construction, and program management. She has successfully coordinated academic programs, including curriculum design and multidisciplinary collaborations, and led participatory workshops for public space interventions. Her role at UCLG involved facilitating global urban policy training and co-authoring influential publications, showcasing her ability to bridge education, technology, and sustainability. With a Master’s in Sustainable Emergency Architecture and a design background, she is well-equipped and looking forward to expanding into the world of  advanced construction by coordinating the Robotics and 3D printing Architecture academic programs.

Huanyu Li is an architect and digital fabrication designer, focused on exploring the intersection of architecture and technology, particularly in digital fabrication and emergent technologies. He advocates for integrating machine learning and artificial intelligence into the architectural design process.

Huanyu earned his undergraduate degree in architecture from Nanchang University (NCU), China, in 2015, and completed his Master’s in Robotics and Advanced Construction and a Postgraduate degree in 3D Printing Architecture at IAAC in 2022.

Nestor Beguin is an architect and computational designer, a graduate of La Cambre-Horta in Brussels and the Postgraduate program in 3D Printing Architecture at IAAC. As a digital enthusiast, Nestor embraces a multidisciplinary approach to design, blending engineering, craftsmanship, and philosophy in his work. He has worked as a computational designer in Brussels, Montréal, and Barcelona.

Currently, Nestor teaches at DFS (La Cambre-Horta, Brussels), the Master in Robotics and Advanced Construction (MRAC), and the 3D Printing Architecture (3DPA) program at IAAC.

Pit Siebenaler is an architect with a degree from La Cambre Horta in Brussels and a Master’s in Robotics and Advanced Construction from IAAC. At IAAC, Pit specialised in integrating sensing workflows with robotic manufacturing to repurpose waste wood, promoting sustainable building practices. Currently, Pit serves as a research assistant at IAAC, supporting the Master’s program in Robotics and Advanced Construction.

Alice Puleo has 15 years of experience specialising in Communication, Public Relations, and Event Production, with a strong focus on the cultural and creative sectors. Trained as an architect and certified as a coach at the Barcelona School of Management, she worked with renowned firms such as Miralles Tagliabue EMBT in Barcelona and Massimiliano Fuksas in Rome, serving as Communication Manager and Executive Assistant.

In 2014, she joined the Domaine de Boisbuchet (formerly Vitra Design Museum Summer Camp) as Design and Architecture Workshop Program Manager. From 2020 to 2022, she led Communication, Public Relations, and Event Production at Cosentino City Barcelona for the Cosentino Group. Since 2015, Alice has collaborated with IAAC, where she is currently Head of Admissions, Marketing, and Communication.

Alex Mademochoritis, is a Greek-French urbanist with a degree in Interior Architecture and Design from the University of West Attica and a Master’s in City & Technology (MaCT) from IAAC.

From 2017 to 2022, he coordinated IAAC’s MaCT program and taught in the Advanced Architecture Group. In 2022-2023, he served as IAAC’s Admissions Manager while continuing his teaching. Since 2023, Alex has led IAAC’s Alumni Relations and is pursuing a Ph.D. in Urban and Spatial Planning at the University Gustave Eiffel in Paris.

Violeta Rivera, originally from Bogotá, Colombia, she has lived in the US, Argentina, and now Barcelona. With over five years of experience in higher education administration and project management, Violeta specialises in international student exchange and institutional relations. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and a Master’s in International Development from Universitat Pompeu Fabra.

Luis María Celda Rodríguez (he/him) is the Marketing & Communication Manager at IAAC. With over eight years of experience in content strategy, social media, and digital storytelling, he has shaped the voice of innovative institutions and forward-thinking organisations. Graduated in Advertising & Public Relations from ESIC and holding a Master’s in Internet Business from ISDI, Luis María has led communication strategies across communication agencies, innovation hubs, and educational institutions — always connecting creativity with technology to build meaningful narratives. At IAAC, he oversees the institute’s global communication and content strategy, ensuring its vision — prototyping the future — reaches and resonates with a worldwide audience.

Lina Salamanca is a Senior Brand Designer specialising in creating systems that elevate and scale brands through impactful visual design. With a strong foundation in Art Direction and Brand Design, she employs a Research-Creation methodology that allows her to explore the aesthetic possibilities of each project. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Interactive Media Design and a Master’s degree in Interaction Design from IAAC. Over the past nine years, she has led numerous projects in Visual Design, UX, and Artistic Direction across diverse sectors, including fintech, education, and design and architecture.

Daniel Llavines is responsible for managing the application process for new students. A native of Barcelona, he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Tourism with a focus on the hospitality and travel industries. His professional journey abroad has exposed him to diverse cultures and backgrounds, shaping his expertise. With a deep understanding of people’s needs, Daniel is dedicated to guiding and advising students, serving as their first point of contact in the exciting IAAC experience.

Guenda Dal Cin, is the Communication Coordinator for EU-funded Projects, overseeing communication and outreach efforts for various research and innovation initiatives. She holds a Master’s degree in Communication for Development and has experience in project management.

Deborah Rappoccio, Visual Content Specialist, is a creative specialized in visual storytelling and digital content design. With a background in photojournalism and a deep passion for design and communication, she explores the intersection of aesthetics and storytelling to produce engaging visual experiences. Her approach is rooted in research and experimentation, allowing her to develop innovative, tailored solutions for each project. She has gained experience in UX Design, and audiovisual production, collaborating with organizations in the digital and cultural field.

Daniel Sallés, is IAAC’s Head of Administration and Accounting. He graduated with a degree in Business Administration (ADE) from Barcelona University in 2015. Daniel brings valuable experience from his previous roles in accounting within the financial departments of the education sector.

Xavier Marco, has over 20 years of experience in accounting. He is responsible for handling purchases requested by various departments, invoicing customers, following up on pending payments, and providing support in accounting tasks. Xavier graduated with a degree in Business Administration (ADE) from Barcelona University in 2003 and holds a Master’s degree in Finance from EADA Business School.

Federica Ciccone is an architect, urban planner, and designer focusing her research on Strategic and Sustainable Planning, Environment, and Landscape Architecture. With a diverse skill set, she has developed expertise in Project Research Development and Management, Urban Design, and Photography.

She holds a Master’s degree in Architecture and a Master’s in City and Technology from IAAC, both with Distinction. Her research has been showcased at prestigious venues, including the MAXXI Museum and the Venice Biennale.

At IAAC, Federica has held various roles, enhancing her understanding of grant management, international relations, and organisational leadership. Currently, as Head of the Grants Management Department, she oversees international and national funding initiatives and acts as a Grants Specialist and EU Project Financial Controller.

Federica manages projects funded by H2020 and other European initiatives like Erasmus+ and Creative Europe. She leads a talented team, fostering innovation and collaboration in navigating international grant funding. Alongside her professional work, she researches photography, reflecting on human behaviour in urban contexts and its environmental impact.

Josep Seuba is an economist from the University of Barcelona. He began his professional career as an international consultant in corporate demand planning solutions, gaining experience in Germany and Argentina. With over 20 years in consulting, he specialises in R&D fundraising at both national and international levels.
Since 2014, he has served as an in-house consultant in the pre-awards area at IAAC, participating in nearly 100 projects, most of which are European. His contributions represent a total funding volume close to 20 million euros.

Jaqueline Hernández holds a degree in Public Accounting from Universidad Edec de Monterrey. With approximately 13 years of experience in administrative and accounting roles, she has collaborated with notable multinational companies such as PKF Auditors and HAAS Automation.

Currently, she provides support in the administrative area of European Projects at IAAC.

Roser Busquets brings to IAAC extensive experience in managing National and European Competitive Funding Programs. With over 15 years in research centres and academic institutions, she has worked at notable organisations such as the Príncipe Felipe Research Center, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, and Universitat Internacional de Catalunya.

Roser began her career abroad, first at Rockefeller University and then at the University of California, San Francisco. She is currently serving as a Senior Grants Specialist at IAAC, where she continues to contribute her expertise in grants management.

Maria del Carme Ramirez Navarro brings to IAAC her 20 years of experience as Administrative Manager: Coordinating projects, Effective and interdepartmental communication, Organization of conferences and events, Administrative management of companies: Stakeholders. Organization, methodologies and planning, Customer service, in companies such as Institut Universitari Dexeus or Invenies Knowlede & Innovation s.l.
She has a degree in Hispanic Philology from the University of Lleida and a Master’s degree in Communication and Advertising from INSA Business School. She has worked in knowledge and social innovation providing the measurement of social impact in organizations.

Jon Ander Ortuondo holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and Public Management, as well as a Master’s Degree in International Studies, both from the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU).

His career journey has led him to acquire meaningful experience both abroad and within Spain, having worked in the fields of international trade and urban development for different public bodies.

As part of the Grants Management Department, he contributes to ensure a smooth and careful handling of the EU-funded projects IAAC works on.

Mariano Gomez-Luque is the Head of Curatorial Projects and Professor of Urban Theory and Design at the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC), co-director of FORMA, an office for general architecture based in Córdoba, Argentina, and an affiliated researcher at the Urban Theory Lab in the University of Chicago.

His research explores the intersections among the design disciplines, critical urban theory, and science fiction studies, with an emphasis on the status and potential of architectural production under conditions of planetary urbanization. Mariano holds a Doctor of Design (2019) and a Master of Architecture (2013) from Harvard GSD.

Shyam Francesco Zonca is an Italian designer and digital fabrication expert whose
work focuses on integrating advanced manufacturing technologies with traditional
craftsmanship. His approach emphasizes durability, detail, and sustainability,
addressing contemporary design challenges with innovative solutions.

As Lab Manager and Faculty at the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia
(IAAC), he oversees the Digital Fabrication Lab, managing cutting-edge tools and
processes while teaching hands-on methodologies that blend emerging technologies
with artisanal techniques. His work supports experimental projects in product,
architecture and furniture design, fostering interdisciplinary and sustainable practices.

With academic and professional experience spanning Italy, Brazil, Portugal, and
beyond, he has contributed to diverse fields such as industrial design, digital
manufacturing, event planning, and visual merchandising. His holistic approach
combines design, craftsmanship, and production control, enabling him to oversee
projects from conceptualization to execution with technical precision and creative flair.

Sheikh Rizvi Riaz is an architect and researcher focused on data-driven design and digital fabrication processes across scales. His work explores innovative building technologies based on additive manufacturing strategies. Sheikh holds a Master’s in Advanced Architecture and a Postgraduate degree in Large Scale Additive Manufacturing, both from IAAC.

He has been actively involved in various applied research projects, with a focus on developing new design tools, computation, and robotics to automate the production of design models and assist in the fabrication of finished constructions.

Secil Afsar graduated from Koc University’s Chemical and Biological Engineering department in 2016. She worked as a process development engineer at an H2020-funded biotechnology company, focusing on generating enzyme mixes from microorganisms for hydrolysis experiments on paper sludge waste. Her work contributed to biogas production and green technology, including using hydrolyzed paper sludge as a cement substitute in mortar. Secil also participated in H2020 SME applications and was a Cleantech Open Global finalist.

Driven by her interest in sustainable environments, Secil earned a Master’s in Biodigital Architecture from the International University of Catalonia. During her studies, she interned at Fab Lab Barcelona, worked on European projects like Foodshift and Siscode, and was part of the Remix el Barrio team, which won the Grand Prize for Innovative Collaboration at Ars Electronica.

Secil now teaches as an Associate Professor at UIC Barcelona, focusing on 3D printing with biocomposites, while pursuing her doctoral degree. She also works as a fabrication laboratory assistant at IAAC, specialising in robotic fabrication and biomaterials for design. She has co-authored several book chapters and academic articles throughout her career.