Designers in Materials Research – From CHEMARTS to Biodesign

By August 26, 2026Events
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Where: Aalto University, Marsio, Espoo, Finland
When:  – 
Registration period:  – 

How does design shape the future of bio-based materials? What roles do designers play, and what strategies foster collaboration and innovation? How do we work together in practice, and what does it feel like to be part of an interdisciplinary research team? Join us to hear experiences, practical insights and ideas for the future.

Our world of materials is in flux, and the need for change is urgent. Collaboration across disciplines is necessary—from fundamental science to prototyping, communication, and beyond. This seminar showcases the power of design and creativity in driving meaningful material innovation. We will give the stage to CHEMARTS alumni and partners who pioneer at the intersection of design, engineering, science, and business—working in companies, organisations, and research projects. The aim is to share experiences and best practices for collaboration, and to demonstrate what kind of roles design and designers can take in bio-based materials research.

The event is hosted by designer Pirjo Kääriäinen, celebrating her work for CHEMARTS at Aalto University since 2011, and organised in collaboration with Aalto University Bioinnovation Center, CHEMARTS and Department of Design.

The seminar is organised as hybrid, in Marsio (Saastamoinen Foundation Stage) and online.

13:00 Welcome words by Professor Michael Hummel, Aalto University Bioinnovation Center, Aalto CHEM

13:05 Dialogues:

  • CHEMARTS co-founders Tapani Vuorinen & Pirjo Kääriäinen
  • Professor Jaana Vapaavuori with doctoral reseachers Sofia Guridi, Laureen Mahler & Matteo Iannacchero
  • Shimber co-founders Noora Yau & Konrad Klockars
  • Lecturers Anna van der Lei & Evgen Multia

14:05 Short break

14:15 Keynote by Suzanne Lee, Biofabricate

14:45 Talks:

  • Doctoral researcher Manuel Barrantes & Géza Szilvay, VTT
  • Co-founder Maurizio Montalti, SQIM, Ephea, Mogu, Officina Corpuscoli
  • Professor Barbara Pollini & doctoral reseacher Ena Naito
  • Senior advisor Pirjo Kääriäinen

15:45 Closing words by Professor Mikko Jalas, Department of Design, Aalto ARTS

15:50 Online event ends. Coffee end refreshments in Marsio.

Contact

Pirjo Kääriäinen

ChemArts Instagram