Bioprotopia

Ruth Morrow is Professor of Biological Architecture at Newcastle University, UK. Ruth’s research is largely practice based and encompasses both the material, the social and the ecological. It is driven by an inclusive, feminist ethos and uses tactics of creativity, collaboration and reflection through writing. She has extensive experience in developing material ideas from concept through to commercialisation, resulting in international funding, design awards, exhibitions, chapters, papers, books and citations. She is currently co-head of the interdisciplinary School X at Newcastle University, where she also co-leads the research theme, Responsible Interactions, in the Hub for Biotechnology in the Built Environment.

Ben Bridgens is Professor of Regenerative Architecture at Newcastle University, UK, and a founding member of the HBBE. Ben works at the interface of structural engineering, architecture and design, critically examining ‘sustainable’ (bio)technologies and exploring the potential of reimagining low-tech, traditional approaches for the construction and operation of the built environment. Ben led the design of an experimental house on the Newcastle University campus called ‘The OME’ and co-leads the HBBE’s ‘Responsible Interactions’ theme.

Louise Mackenzie is an artist, curator and research associate at HBBE at Newcastle University. Her practice explores human relationships with the non-human world and her research has developed a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach to critical engagement with scientific practice. Louise holds a PhD in Fine Art from BxNU Institute of Contemporary Art and is a Director of ASCUS Art and Science in Edinburgh. She is co-founder and curator of an interdisciplinary cinema project, Black Box, and co-founder of Alive Together, an international community for research in human/animal relationships. Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally, including ZKM (Germany), BALTIC CCA (UK) and National Library of Madrid (Spain).