We are a dynamic network of people passionate about reimagining research and education by exploring the vast potential of imagination at the cross-roads of art and technology.

In a world fraught with overlapping challenges, only boldly imaginative thinking and acting can unlock the transformative change we need to create desirable futures. The Imagination Lab (ILab) is a catalyst for this change, aiming to ignite our collective imagination and shape futures that are not only sustainable but also just and inspiring.

Imagination not only matters in the creation of art or the development of new technologies but also in the experience and use of them. Today, technologies like AI and robotics push us to rethink the relationships between our humanity, art, nature and the world around us.

By bringing together a diverse community of interdisciplinary researchers, artists, technologists, entrepreneurs, innovators, educators, and students, the ILab fosters imaginative ways of thinking and acting at the intersections of three core themes: entrepreneurship and innovation, futures thinking, and interdisciplinary research and methods.

A semi-robotic bee rests on a yellow flower

Entrepreneurship and Innovation

We study the work of imagination in entrepreneurship and innovation to understand how they can be re-imagined and their transformative potential nurtured.

An art installation by Katie Paterson, featuring a haiku from her series, Ideas

Futures thinking

We explore how futures thinking that traditionally leverage analytical ways of learning can be complemented by art-based ways of learning that foster imagination and engagement through powerful experiences.

A group of students are hunched over a table writing notes, during an interdisciplinary workshop

Interdisciplinary research and methods

We develop and experiment with novel approaches to leverage the role of imagination in interdisciplinary research and create actionable insights that foster transformative change.

Our vibrant programme includes regular meetings, networking opportunities, funding events, and both curriculum and extracurricular training, all designed to empower participants to generate and turn imaginative ideas into reality.

Interested in learning more?

For further information about the Imagination Lab, please contact Piera Morlacchi via the link below:

Email Piera

Photo credits: Freepik, Katie Paterson/University of Edinburgh, and Piera Morlacchi.