What is the Living Lab Program?
The Living Lab Program is a decades-old initiative that encourages members of the Rice University community to use the campus as a space for exploring sustainability-related ideas and solutions. It supports projects that connect academic learning with practical application, allowing students, faculty, staff, and partners to collaborate on efforts that improve campus systems, address environmental and social challenges, and contribute to broader sustainability goals. The program is open to a wide range of disciplines and project types, offering a flexible framework for innovation and impact.
Who can submit an idea?
Any member of the Rice community can submit an idea, including students, faculty, and staff. We are also open to exploring potential external partnerships on a case-by-case basis.
When can I submit an idea?
You’re welcome to submit an idea at any time using the Living Lab Qualtrics form here. While submissions are accepted year-round, action on the proposal might need to wait until the next review cycle (typically every semester).
What types of ideas are you looking for?
We welcome any ideas that address a sustainability challenge. Projects can range from energy and water conservation to waste reduction, biodiversity, climate resilience, and beyond. While we will occasionally issue specific calls for ideas aligned with particular sustainability themes or university goals, all ideas are always welcome. If you see a need or opportunity for positive change, we encourage you to share it!
Can I submit more than one idea?
Yes, you are welcome to submit multiple ideas to the Living Lab Program. We encourage creativity and understand that sustainability challenges often require diverse approaches. Whether your ideas are related or completely different, each submission is an opportunity to contribute to meaningful changes on campus.
What are the benefits of participating?
The Living Lab program offers a wide range of benefits for everyone involved. For students, it’s a chance to apply academic knowledge to real-world challenges, gain hands-on experience, and develop valuable skills in research, collaboration, and problem-solving. Faculty and staff can use the program to advance research, pilot innovative ideas, and engage with students in experiential learning. For external partners, including corporations, nonprofits, and government agencies, the program provides opportunities to collaborate with the Rice community, explore sustainable solutions, and contribute to meaningful changes on campus and beyond. Whether you're looking to learn, teach, innovate, or partner, the Living Lab program creates space for impactful engagement.
How are ideas selected?
Ideas are reviewed by the Office of Sustainability and, when relevant, the Rice Sustainability Institute. Projects are considered based on their potential impact, feasibility, and alignment with campus sustainability goals. Stakeholders are identified and engaged early in the process, and selected ideas move forward with support to develop, implement, and evaluate the project.
What support is available for selected projects?
Selected projects receive guidance and coordination support from the Office of Sustainability and, when applicable, the Rice Sustainability Institute. This includes help identifying and engaging campus stakeholders, refining project goals and scope, and navigating logistics like timelines, funding, and resource needs. We’re here to help you bring your idea to life and ensure it has a meaningful impact.
Who do I contact with questions?
You may contact Dr. Kristianna Bowles of the Office of Sustainability at kb102@rice.edu with any questions.