Researchers at ETH Zurich have created a “living material” that combines conventional materials with microorganisms, such as bacteria, algae, and fungi. The material, which is made with photosynthetic bacteria, can absorb CO2 from the air through photosynthesis and store it in a stable form. The material can be shaped using 3D printing and only requires sunlight, water, and nutrients to grow. It has the potential to be used as a building material, storing CO2 directly in buildings and reducing the carbon footprint of construction.

The material has been tested in laboratory settings and has shown promising results, binding CO2 continuously over a period of 400 days. The researchers envision using the material as a coating for building facades, which could bind CO2 throughout the entire life cycle of a building. The material has already been used in two installations, one in Venice and one in Milan, which demonstrate its potential for use in architecture. The research is part of the ALIVE initiative, which promotes collaboration between researchers from different disciplines to develop new living materials for a wide range of applications.

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Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a living building material that can store carbon dioxide from the air using growing bacteria and hydrogel. The material, which combines cyanobacteria with hydrogel, can be shaped using a 3D printer and grows over time, removing carbon dioxide from the air through photosynthesis. The material only needs sunlight, artificial seawater with nutrients, and carbon dioxide to survive. As the bacteria grows, it forms minerals that trap the carbon dioxide in a stable way, making it harder and stronger over time. The scientists have tested the material in laboratory tests, where it absorbed carbon dioxide for over 400 days. The material has already been applied to several projects, including the Canada Pavilion at the Venice Architecture Biennale 2025 and the Triennale Milano, where it was used to create a green layer on wood that absorbs carbon dioxide from the air. This innovative material has the potential to be used in architecture to store carbon and help fight climate change.

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Researchers have developed 3D-printed living structures that can bind CO2 from the atmosphere, providing a low-energy and environmentally friendly approach to carbon sequestration. The structures are composed of a hydrogel that harbors cyanobacteria, which are highly efficient at photosynthesis and can utilize even weak light to produce biomass from CO2 and water. As a result of photosynthesis, the bacteria precipitate solid carbonates, such as lime, which store CO2 in a stable form. The material has been shown to bind CO2 continuously over a period of 400 days, with a significant amount of CO2 stored in mineral form. The researchers envision using this material as a coating for building facades to bind CO2 throughout the entire life cycle of a building. Initial experiments have been realized in installations in Venice and Milan, demonstrating the potential of living materials for future building envelopes.

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Researchers at Empa have developed a new biodegradable material using the mycelium of the split-gill mushroom. The material is made up of the fungus’s own extracellular matrix, which gives it unique properties such as tensile strength and versatility. The material is completely biodegradable, non-toxic, and edible, making it suitable for a range of applications. The researchers have demonstrated its potential use as a living emulsifier, stabilizing mixtures of liquids that would otherwise separate. They have also used it to create thin films with good tensile strength, which could be used as a bioplastic. The material’s biodegradability and ability to actively decompose organic waste make it a promising solution for reducing plastic pollution. Potential applications include compostable bags that can break down organic waste, biodegradable moisture sensors, and even a compact, biodegradable battery. The researchers believe that their living material could have a significant impact on the development of sustainable materials and technologies. With its unique properties and potential uses, this innovative material is an exciting example of the potential of fungi-based technologies.

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Academics from Northumbria University and University College London have collaborated on a prestigious pavilion exhibition at the 2025 London Design Biennale. The “Living Assembly: Building with Biology” pavilion explores the emerging field of biology and architecture, showcasing cutting-edge biological construction technologies. The team has created “living materials” made from microbes and fungi, which can be used to build sustainable and dynamic structures. These materials include mycelium, biological cements, and shape-changing materials that can absorb carbon dioxide and vent humid air. The exhibition aims to reimagine traditional building components and create a future where buildings are grown, not constructed. The pavilion has received a special mention at the Biennale’s Medal Ceremony and has been named a standout pavilion by architecture and design magazines. The collaboration between Northumbria University and UCL showcases a vision for a more sustainable future for construction and highlights the potential for living buildings to reduce waste and pollution. The exhibition is part of the London Design Biennale, which takes place at Somerset House from June 5 to June 29.

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Job Role:

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join the Living Manufacture project at Northumbria University. The successful candidate will lead Work Package 1 (Hardware Development) and be responsible for integrating mechanical, electronic, and software-controlled systems to enable precise manipulation of bacterial cellulose growth and microbial modification processes. The role involves developing programmable robotic actuators, ensuring sterile and controlled bioreactor conditions, and precision delivery systems for chemical and light-based patterning.

Project Background:

The Living Manufacture project is a 2-year project funded by a collaboration between universities, aiming to pioneer a new paradigm in biological fabrication. The project integrates microbial self-assembly, programmable genetic modifications, and robotic control to create Engineered Living Materials (ELMs).

Key Requirements:

• Expertise in robotic fabrication, bioreactor systems, or automated biofabrication
• Strong skills in hardware prototyping, automation, and system integration
• Familiarity with biotechnology or biofabrication systems is desirable
• Ability to work closely with an interdisciplinary team

About Northumbria University:

Northumbria University is a research-intensive university that unlocks potential for all. The university is committed to creating an inclusive culture and values diversity, equity, and excellence.

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Soorty’s Agriculture Ventures and Traceability is revolutionizing farmer advisory services with modern digital tools. The company is also ensuring traceability throughout the supply chain through the use of digital bale passports. A dedicated seed laboratory is being established to further strengthen initiatives. The launch of the new ROC (Responsible Organic Cotton) project is a significant step forward in achieving sustainability goals. By empowering farmers, enhancing transparency, and shaping the future of responsible agriculture, Soorty is making a positive impact on the industry. Dr. Yousaf, head of Agriculture Ventures and Traceability, emphasized the importance of these efforts, stating that they are not just advancing sustainability, but also revolutionizing the way farms operate.

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The US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is exploring a new concept for growing large space structures and repairing damaged satellites by directly manufacturing components in space. This approach would skip traditional rocket launches and weigh constraints, allowing for the creation of massive structures over 1,640 feet long. DARPA is building on existing space manufacturing research, including robotic construction and self-assembling materials, and incorporating synthetic biology and materials science. The agency has received proposals from several teams, including the California Institute of Technology and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, to test their materials and manufacturing processes in space. DARPA is also seeking to develop hybrid living materials that can grow into predefined structures in space, using extremophiles and biomaterials to create structures that can withstand the harsh environment of space. The goal is to create objects that can be biologically manufactured and assembled, but may be infeasible to produce traditionally on Earth. A workshop is planned for April to debate the concept with experts, with the ultimate goal of creating large-scale space-based structures for missions to Mars and beyond.

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This summary is within the 200-word limit.

The article discusses the concept of protocells, which are simplified models of living cells that can self-reproduce and interact with their environment. Protocells can be created using various materials, such as lipids, polymers, and nucleic acids, and can be designed to mimic various biological processes, such as cell signaling, cell adhesion, and cell division.

Researchers have designed various types of protocells, including membrane-bound protocells, membrane-free protocells, and compartmentalized protocells. These protocells can be used to study biological processes, develop new biomaterials, and create bioinspired technologies.

The applications of protocells include biomedicine, biotechnology, and materials science. For example, protocells can be used to develop new therapies for diseases, such as cancer and Alzheimer’s disease, and to create new biomaterials for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Additionally, protocells can be used to create new sensing and computing devices that mimic biological processes.

Overall, the study of protocells has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of biology and the development of new technologies.

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Researchers at a hackerspace are developing a 3D printer that can create living tissue. The printer, still in its early stages, uses a technique called Xolography, which involves projecting light onto liquids to create solid biomaterials. A fluid inside the printer is transformed into a solid, allowing for the printing of physiologically relevant 3D environments for cell cultures. The technology has the potential to print entire organs, but is still in its experimental stages. PhD student Lena Stoecker, who is part of the Biomaterials Engineering and Biofabrication group, is working on the project and is inspired by the technology’s potential to bring ideas to life. The goal is to create 3D-printed organs that can be used for medical applications, but the team is still in the process of refining the technology.

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Researchers at Penn State have developed a new biomaterial called “living” hydrogels, known as LivGels, that can mimic certain behaviors of biological tissues and extracellular matrices (ECMs). These materials can be used in regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and soft robotics, among other applications. The researchers addressed the limitations of previous hydrogels by creating a cell-free material that dynamically mimics the behavior of ECMs, which are crucial for tissue structure and cell functions. The LivGels are made of “hairy” nanoparticles composed of nanocrystals with disordered cellulose chains, which introduce anisotropy and allow dynamic bonding with biopolymer networks. This design enables the material to exhibit nonlinear strain-stiffening behavior, self-healing properties, and precise control of stiffness and strain-stiffening properties. The researchers believe that LivGels have the potential to be used as scaffolding for tissue repair and regeneration, for simulating tissue behavior in drug testing, and for creating realistic environments for studying disease progression. The next steps include optimizing LivGels for specific tissue types and exploring in vivo applications for regenerative medicine.

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Researchers at Rice University have made a breakthrough in synthetic biology, genetically modifying proteins to create engineered living materials (ELMs) with specific properties. The team, led by Esther Jimenez, manipulated the protein sequences of the bacterium Caulobacter crescentus to create fibers with varying strengths and dexterities. The resulting material is composed of approximately 93% water, making it suitable for tissue engineering applications. This study is significant as it focuses on designing materials with tailored mechanical properties from the ground up, rather than simply adding biological functions.

The potential applications of this research are vast, including biomedical uses such as drug delivery and 3D printing of living organisms, as well as environmental applications like renewable energy and cleanup. The team’s findings have implications for the development of ELMs, which could revolutionize various industries. According to Jimenez, “By making small tweaks to protein sequences, we’ve gained valuable insights into how to design materials with specific mechanical properties.” The future of synthetic biology in ELMs is promising, and this research is just the beginning of a new era in materials science.

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Researchers at Penn State have developed a new biomaterial that mimics the behavior of biological tissues and extracellular matrices (ECMs), which could have significant implications for regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and soft robotics. The material, called acellular nanocomposite living hydrogels (LivGels), can mimic the mechanical stress responses of ECMs, including nonlinear strain-stiffening and self-healing properties. This was achieved by designing “hairy” nanoparticles with disordered cellulose chains that can bond with a biopolymeric matrix, allowing for dynamic bonding and strain-stiffening behavior. The LivGels have been shown to recover their structure after high strain, making them a promising material for various applications. The research was published in Materials Horizons and featured on the journal’s cover. The development of this material could lead to advancements in fields such as regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and soft robotics.

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Designers are creating innovative lighting solutions that interact with the environment by harnessing bioluminescence and integrating living materials. Some projects display the magic of bacteria, while others, like Élise Fouin and Danielle Trofe, co-design with living organisms like silkworms and mycelium. Mycelium, the root network of fungi, is a promising material for lighting technology due to its ability to grow and adapt to different shapes and structures. Isabel Brouwers’ LUMNES lamp collection features blown glass pieces that incorporate a unique design for each piece and an oxygen sensor that adjusts the light intensity based on surrounding oxygen levels. The double-layer structure allows oxygen to enter and activate internal luminescence, creating a dynamic viewing experience with adjustable brightness. These designs aim to reduce energy consumption during production and provide a more sustainable approach to lighting.

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Wil Srubar, a professor of engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder, is leading a research laboratory that aims to develop sustainable building materials inspired by nature. Srubar’s work focuses on “living materials” that can self-repair, reduce carbon emissions, and provide a more regenerative approach to construction. One of his notable projects is “living concrete,” which uses fungus to repair cracks and reduce the need for cement production. He has also developed carbon-negative cement and polymers that mimic natural anti-freeze proteins.

Srubar hopes to bring his research to the public through two start-ups and a funding company. He has already seen progress, with living concrete being used in real buildings and installations in Chicago and Seattle. However, he notes that the construction industry is constrained by scale and cost, making it challenging to transition his research into practical applications.

Srubar is also committed to mentoring and recruiting underrepresented groups, particularly LGBTQ+ students, and has won federal funding for this initiative. He hopes to continue providing opportunities for students and to pay it forward by inspiring others to do the same.

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The articles discuss the advancements in synthetic biology and its applications in medicine, materials science, and biotechnology. Synthetic biology enables the design and construction of new biological systems, such as genetically engineered cells, proteins, and biomaterials. These advances have led to the development of novel therapeutics, including gene therapies, immunotherapies, and biomaterials for tissue engineering. The articles also highlight the potential of synthetic biology in developing living therapeutics, such as bacteria that can deliver drugs or repair damaged tissues.

The articles also discuss the development of biomaterials that can interact with cells and tissues, such as hydrogels and bioadhesives. These materials can be used to deliver drugs, promote tissue repair, or enhance wound healing. The articles also touch on the topic of bioelectronic systems, which integrate living cells with electronic devices to monitor and control biological processes.

Overall, the articles demonstrate the exciting potential of synthetic biology in developing innovative solutions for various biomedical applications.

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Scientists at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) have developed a new type of battery that uses fungi to generate electricity. The battery, powered by two types of fungi, is non-toxic and biodegradable, making it a sustainable alternative to conventional batteries. The researchers combined the metabolic processes of the two fungi to create a microbial fuel cell, which harnesses the energy released by the microorganisms. The fungal battery is manufactured using 3D printing, allowing the researchers to structure the electrodes to optimize the growth of the fungi. The battery is designed to be used in applications such as temperature sensors in agriculture or environmental research. While the battery’s electricity output is currently limited, the researchers are working to improve its performance and power output. The project represents a collaboration between microbiology, materials science, and electrical engineering, and highlights the potential of fungi as a source of sustainable energy.

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The article highlights several exciting research and innovation projects that are expected to make a significant impact in 2025. These projects include:

1. Cracking the brain’s genetics with AI’s help: The Human Brain Project has generated detailed maps of the human brain, which will help scientists and doctors navigate towards new treatments for patients with brain disease.
2. Solar energy gets a helping hand from space: Combining satellite data with AI is offering new opportunities for predicting energy output from solar farms and potentially leading to the collection of solar energy in space.
3. Self-repairing, living structural materials: Researchers are creating composite materials made with fungi that could be used in future household furnishings, aeroplane parts, and large construction projects, such as bridges.
4. Better future for bees, and nature, in Europe: An EU-backed project is researching honeybees and seeking to restore their harmony with nature, using technology to track activity and temperature from a distance and develop smarter algorithms to interpret data.
5. Greener, cleaner cities that benefit all: The CRAFT project is bringing together artistic and cultural groups to help kindle sustainable change on city streets, with a focus on local communities and urban market gardens.

These projects demonstrate the potential for research and innovation to make a positive impact on society, from improving healthcare and energy production to promoting sustainability and environmental protection.

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Researchers have developed “living ceramics” by infusing porous clay with bacteria, allowing them to sense and respond to their environment. By 3D printing ceramics with pores ranging from 20-130 micrometers and 20-80 nanometers, the team created a structure that can support cell growth and provide nutrients. They then used a vacuum to pull nutrient-rich liquid into the ceramic’s pores and inoculated the structures with different bacterial cultures. The bacteria multiplied and performed their functions for at least two weeks, with the photosynthetic cyanobacteria even pulling CO2 from the air to grow. The E. coli, engineered to detect formaldehyde, detected the chemical even at levels as low as 1 ppm. While the mechanical properties of the living porous ceramics may limit their applications, the technology demonstrates the potential for harnessing microbes for smart functionalities.

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